CNSC Update on Readiness to Regulate Projects Proposing the Use of Small Modular Reactors (SMR)

Abstract

Over the past few years, Canadian Nuclear Security Commission (CNSC)staff have been working to identify and understand key regulatory and technical issues that may be encountered in Small Modular Reactor (SMR) deployment scenarios in Canada. This work is considered necessary not only to be ready to engage with vendors and utilities in technical and licensing discussions, but also to prepare to disseminate objective scientific, technical and regulatory information to the public. Beyond size differences, SMRs are reactor-based facilities. The main finding from CNSC’s work-to-date is that most, if not all, of the regulatory issues to be addressed from a Canadian perspective are due to thealternate or novel approaches that proponents of SMRs are proposing and that present uncertainties from the perspective of proven technology or public acceptance. These uncertainties represent risks that need to be mitigated by proponents before the environmental assessment and licensing processes are initiated.Examples of alternate or novel approaches include, but are not limited to: non-traditional siting scenarios (remote regions, near industrial facilities, in urban areas); increased use of physical design measures to reduce the need for security personnel; fleet-based regional emergency planning and response; design specific passive design features; remote operation of the facility. This paper covers two main themes: 1. CNSC staff have made significant progress in the ongoing characterization of key regulatory and licensing issues that may emergein deployment of both large and / or small SMRs in Canada. This work informs CNSC’s regulatory framework activities; 2. Many regulatory framework development activities (e.g. REGDOCs) have either already accounted for SMR concepts in the development of requirements and guidance or are planning to do so. This includes taking into account the ability to use a graded approach.