Applying The Plant Parameter Envelope to New Nuclear Facilities

Abstract

A Plant Parameter Envelope (PPE) is a tool that can be implemented when assessing proposed sites for nuclear facilities to allow assessments and licensing processes to begin before a specific reactor technology is chosen. Different reactor technologies are identified, and a bounding “envelope” of parameters is defined, which is used to assess the effects of the project. Parameters required to define the site and plant characteristics are included, such that all assessments necessary to evaluate the project and site can be completed. The PPE concept has been applied to previous projects including the Environmental Impact Statement for the Darlington New Nuclear Project [1], and Early Site Permit applications for Salem County [2], North Anna [3], Clinton [4], and Grand Gulf [5]. This paper provides a review of the PPE concept, describes the opportunities and challenges associated with this approach and discusses how the concept has been applied to existing projects.