Streamlining the Future: Achieving Regulatory Efficiencies in Nuclear Site Expansions

Abstract

This paper explores the potential for achieving regulatory efficiencies in existing nuclear site expansions.

Significant new nuclear capacity has been identified as part of the electricity supply mix needed to meet 2050 net zero climate change targets. An efficient and timely Impact Assessment (IA) process is essential to ensure reactors can be built in a timely manner to achieve these targets, avoid unnecessary buildout of emitting generation, and maintain system reliability and affordability.

Bruce Power is uniquely positioned for new nuclear expansion with decades of operating experience, a well-studied site, strong community relationships, and an experienced workforce. Bruce Power submitted an Early Review Request to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to acknowledge existing information that is available about the Bruce Power site and be considered to tailor the integrated IA process.

The assessment of new nuclear reactors at existing facilities presents unique opportunities for achieving regulatory efficiencies, by leveraging existing processes and requirements that have been previously accepted and/or approved by a regulatory agency, and focusing the IA on the topics and issues that are of key relevance to new nuclear projects, and those identified through engagement. A risk-based approach from the regulators is required to realize this opportunity.