Licensing Process

Avoiding Time and Cost Overruns
The cost of U.S. nuclear power units built in the 1970s and 80s increased dramatically from original cost estimates. The nuclear industry has taken a number of steps to reduce the risk of capital cost escalations for new plants.

To avoid lengthy licensing processes and cost overruns that occurred during the construction of the current fleet of nuclear plants, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has implemented changes to its licensing process that provide for the resolution of all safety and environmental issues before construction begins. The NRC, manufacturers and utilities have worked together to make changes to help prevent price escalations experienced in the 1970s and 80's.

The prior licensing approach granted an operating license after construction was completed. During construction, it was common for licensing requirements to change, resulting in costly redesigns.

Today's design certification process enables plant designers to secure advance NRC approval of standardized plant designs. The early site permit process also enables companies to obtain approval from the NRC for a nuclear power plant site before deciding to build a plant. And today's process provides for issuance of a combined construction permit and operating license (COL) before construction begins. Granting a COL signifies resolution of all safety issues associated with the plant.

More about the Part 52 New Licensing Process.

Standardized Designs
While past nuclear power plant designs contained common technologies, there were many other differences in overall plant design. Today, manufacturers use standard designs which are being pre-approved by the NRC.

Southern Company has selected the light-water Westinghouse AP1000 technology for the new units at Plant Vogtle. More than 40 new nuclear plants are under construction in 12 countries around the world - almost all using light-water reactor technology.

The AP1000 has received design certification from the NRC. The design is safe, efficient and simpler than current models.

More about the AP1000.