Advanced Nuclear Reactor (SMR including FNPP)
Project Title: Advanced Nuclear Reactor Safety Infrastructure
Duration: 3 years
Background:
Global interest in advanced nuclear reactors such as Small Modular Reactor (SMR) and Floating Nuclear Power Plant (FNPP), is increasing due to their flexibility in meeting the needs of a wider range of users and applications as well as their potential to replace aging fossil fuel-fired power plants. Many ANSN member countries, including those who have not previously pursued conventional NPP programs, are now expressing a keen interest in integrating this technology into their energy grid.
However, to implement these new types of reactors, it is essential that the states have the necessary infrastructure in place, such as properly adjusted regulatory systems, enhanced knowledge of the safety feature related to design and siting, operational experience, and radioactive waste management.
Introduction of project:
On one hand, this project aims to identify the common technical needs of ANSN member countries regarding regulatory aspect of safety and security when considering, planning, and deploying the advanced nuclear reactors. It will also address these needs through capacity building activities. On the other hand, the project will provide a platform for relevant organizations/professionals to exchange experiences and lessons learned.
The potential topics covered by this project include:
- Regulatory Framework and Requirements for Safety
- Safety Analysis and Assessment
- Licensing and Regulatory Oversights (including in manufacturing and construction)
- Siting, Design, Construction and Decommissioning
- Commissioning and Operation, Maintenance, Management of Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel
- Emergency Preparedness and Responses for both land-based and mobile reactors
- SMR Supply chain
Potential Activities and Deliverables of the project:
- Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify priority areas where the ANSN member countries’ status regarding advanced nuclear reactor technology and programs
- Based on the assessment, identify priority technical areas for training courses with IAEA support
- Plan and conduct regional forum or workshop
- Develop technical documents on experiences, best practices from MSs
- Develop a regional guidance for MSs’ application
- Identify and pool professionals in Asian region in the subject areas
Expected Outcomes:
- Enhance the ANSN member countries’ infrastructure and knowledge in preparation and implementation of advanced nuclear reactor programs
- Create sustainable platform to exchange experiences and lessons learned related to advanced nuclear reactors.