⚛️NRC Confirms New 40-Year Design Certification Rule for Nuclear Facilities
Revising the Duration of Design Certifications
Summary
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is confirming the effective date of September 15, 2025, for the direct final rule published in the Federal Register on July 2, 2025. This direct final rule amended the NRC's regulations to revise the duration of design certifications (DCs). This action replaced the 15-year duration for DCs with a 40-year duration period, both for existing DCs currently in effect and generically for future DCs. This direct final rule did not change the date of issuance for existing DCs (i.e., the start date by which an existing DC may be referenced remains unchanged). This direct final rule also incorporated a minor editorial correction.
Agencies
- Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Business Impact
$$ - Med
The regulatory change increases the duration of design certifications from 15 to 40 years, potentially impacting compliance and operational costs for nuclear facility owners. This extended duration may lead to significant cost savings but also raises concerns about safety updates during the certification period.