Fast reactor application makes nuclear and legal history
16 Apr 2024
Legal history has been made with the first ever attempt to use a legislative procedure specifically designed for new nuclear power practices.
The Nuclear Industry Association applied to the Government for a so-called ‘justification decision’ for company newcleo’s lead-cooled fast reactor, the LFR-AS-200.
Justification, which requires a government decision, is applied before any new class or type of practice involving ionising radiation can be introduced in the UK.
Although a required step for operating new nuclear technology, it involves a generic decision based on evaluation of the potential benefits and detriments but is not a permit or licence for a specific project to go ahead.
The NIA stated that its application argue the benefits of “clean, firm, flexible power”, adding that any potential risks were rigorously controlled by robust safety features, including passive safety systems in accordance with the UK’s regulatory requirements.
The application also states that the reactor design would support nuclear energy’s contribution to a stable and well-balanced electricity grid, essential to reduce consumer bills and maintain economic competitiveness.
Justification is a regulatory process which requires a Government decision before any new class or type of practice involving ionising radiation can be introduced in the UK.
Chief executive of the Nuclear Industry Association Tom Greatrex, said:
“Advanced reactors have enormous potential to support the UK’s energy security and net zero transition, so we were delighted to apply for this decision.
"This is an opportunity for the UK Government to demonstrate that it backs advanced nuclear technologies to support a robust clean power mix and to reinvigorate the UK’s proud tradition of nuclear innovation. We look forward to engaging with the Government and the public throughout this process and to further applications for new nuclear designs in the future.”
Chief executive officer of newcleo Stefano Buono said his company was delighted to be the first advanced technology to be submitted to the justification process and the first reactor design to be considered since the last wave of large-scale designs, nearly a decade earlier.
"We are but one player in the new nuclear renaissance and we look forward to working with Government and the rest of the sector to develop the robust supply chain that can deliver the UK’s ambition of 24GW of nuclear power by 2050,” added Buono.
Pic: Shutterstock (Dehil Maksym)
