What is the process by which NRC approves power uprates?
After a licensee submits a license amendment request to change the power level at which it operates its plant, the NRC notifies the public, by issuing a public notice in the Federal Register, that the NRC is considering the request. The public has 30 days to comment on the licensee’s request and 60 days to request a hearing. The NRC thoroughly reviews the request, any public comments and any requests for hearings received from the public. After completing its review and considering and addressing any public comments and requests for hearings related to the application, the NRC issues its findings in a safety evaluation and notifies the public in another Federal Register notice of the NRC decision related to the application. On the basis of its findings, the NRC may approve or deny the request. Press releases are issued if a power uprate is approved.
