Ampera Pursues NRC Licensing Under New Regulations

US-based nuclear reactor startup Ampera announced it will file for a license for its microreactors with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) under recently finalized regulations. The company anticipates the new framework will accelerate the licensing process for its advanced technology.

Growing Demand for Advanced Nuclear Energy

The development comes as global demand for carbon-free energy sources increases. While some countries are investing in large-scale nuclear plants, concerns about safety and cost are driving innovation in smaller, more scalable reactor designs.

Ampera’s Thorium-Fueled Microreactor Technology

Ampera is developing thorium-enabled microreactors with an output capacity of 15-30 MWe. A key feature of these reactors is their ability to operate continuously for decades without refueling.

TRISO Fuel and Supercritical CO2 Cooling

Ampera’s reactors utilize TRISO fuel, derived from abundantly available thorium, eliminating the need for fuel enrichment. The reactors employ a supercritical CO2 cycle to drive a turbine, enabling water-free operation and potentially lower energy costs. The company is also integrating artificial intelligence into its technology development.

New NRC Regulations Streamline Licensing

In February 2024, the NRC finalized 10 CFR Part 53, a new voluntary regulatory framework for licensing advanced nuclear reactors. This regulation shifts from prescriptive requirements to a risk- and performance-based approach, aiming to expedite the approval of innovative technologies. Work on the regulation began in 2020.

Ampera’s Response to Part 53

Following an 18-month waiting period after drafting, the regulations were implemented in February, prompting Ampera to express its interest. “With the NRC implementing Part 53, innovative, advanced nuclear concepts like ours can focus on licensing new technology rather than explaining how it is different from traditional nuclear systems,” said AMPERA Founder and CEO Brian Matthews.

Days after implementation, Ampera submitted a letter initiating the pre-application process for its factory-made containerized microreactor. The company is seeking a meeting with NRC officials before the end of May to discuss the licensing engagement process.

Focus on Safety and Innovation

“The NRC’s new regulatory process is an effective way to ensure the same level of safety while acknowledging the different types of technology that are coming to the market,” stated AMPERA’s Licensing Strategist, Dr. April Smith. “AMPERA looks forward to working with the NRC to bring next-generation nuclear reactors to market that can be commercially produced in a factory setting.”