Based on sample audits of 12 plants completed in January, the NRC did not identify any issues that would preclude nuclear power plants from achieving Y2K readiness before January 1, 2000. No Y2K problems have been identified that directly impact the proper functioning of safety systems in nuclear power plants.
Most plants have protection systems that are analog rather than digital.
Because Y2K concerns are associated with digital systems, analog reactor protection system functions are not impacted by the Y2K problem. Errors such as incorrect dates in printouts, logs or displays have been identified in digital devices, but the errors do not affect the function of safety-related devices or systems. All licensees are required to have contingency plans to cope with unanticipated problems should they arise during the Y2K critical roll-over dates. Licensees have made extensive use of NEI's guidance for developing their contingency plans which are also being reviewed by the NRC as part of the Y2K program review at all 103 operating plants. Licensees must confirm to the NRC by July 1 that they have developed these plans.