**GAO-07-1129**                      Published: Sep 21, 2007. Publicly Released: Sep 21, 2007.                  

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## Highlights

Nearly three decades after the last order for a new nuclear power reactor in the United States, electric power companies plan to submit 20 applications in the next 18 months to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for licenses to build and operate new reactors. Since 1989, NRC has developed a new license review process that allows a power company to obtain a construction permit and an operating license through a single combined license (COL) based on one of a number of standard reactor designs. NRC expects its new process to enhance the efficiency and predictability of its reviews. GAO reviewed NRC's readiness to evaluate these applications by examining the steps NRC has taken to (1) prepare its workforce and manage its workload and (2) develop its regulatory framework and review process for new reactor activities. GAO reviewed NRC documents for new reactor workforce staffing and training, examined NRC's guidance for the review of license applications, interviewed NRC managers and representatives of nearly all of the COL applicants, and observed NRC's public meetings.

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## Topics

Energy

Construction industryEmployeesEvaluation criteriaIndependent regulatory commissionsLicensesNuclear energyNuclear powerplant constructionNuclear reactorsProgram evaluationProgram managementStandards evaluationStrategic planning