The mission of the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy (DOE-NE) is to advance nuclear power as a resource capable of meeting the nation's energy, environmental and national security needs by resolving technical, cost, safety, proliferation resistance, and security barriers through research, development and demonstration [RD&D]...
The Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) announced today that 14 businesses will be provided nuclear energy vouchers worth approximately $4.2 million to accelerate the innovation and application of advanced nuclear technologies.
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Individuals and organizations interested in the GAIN initiative should be aware that the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is seeking public comment on a proposed rulemaking concerning the Emergency Planning Zones required around Small Modular Reactors and advanced reactors (referred to in NRC's documentation as Other New Technologies). The proposed rule acknowledges that the one-size fits all approach for older plants do not reflect the increased safety and reduced potential impact zones of newer designs. The comment period runs through June 27. Rulemaking Comments Link
The "Nuclear Power Reactor Testing Needs and Prototype Plants for Advanced Reactor Designs" document describes the relevant regulations governing the testing requirements for advanced reactors, describes the process for determining testing needs to meet the NRC’s regulatory requirements, clarifies when a prototype plant might be needed and how it might differ from the proposed standard plant design, and describes licensing strategies and options that include the use of a prototype plant to meet the NRC’s testing requirements. Access document here.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is awarding over $66 million in nuclear energy research, facility access, crosscutting technology development, and infrastructure awards in 28 states. In total, 86 projects were selected to receive funding that will help advance innovative nuclear technologies. These awards provide funding for nuclear energy-related research through the Nuclear Energy University Program (NEUP), the Nuclear Science User Facilities (NSUF), and Nuclear Energy Enabling Technology programs. a number of nuclear technology developers will receive access to unique research capabilities and other assistance consistent with the goals and objectives of the Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) initiative.