Understanding the Legal Definition of Advanced Nuclear Facility [Energy]
Definition & meaning
An advanced nuclear facility refers to any nuclear power plant whose reactor design received approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) after December 31, 1993. This definition is important as it distinguishes newer designs from those that were approved before this date, ensuring that advanced safety and technology standards are applied to modern nuclear facilities.
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The term "advanced nuclear facility" is primarily used in the context of energy regulation and nuclear safety. It is relevant in legal practices involving energy law, environmental law, and regulatory compliance. Legal professionals may encounter this term when dealing with permits, licenses, and compliance issues related to nuclear energy production. Users can manage certain aspects of these processes using legal templates from US Legal Forms, which are drafted by qualified attorneys.
Key Legal Elements
Real-World Examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A nuclear facility designed with advanced safety features and approved in 2005 qualifies as an advanced nuclear facility.
Example 2: A facility that utilizes new reactor technology, such as small modular reactors, and received NRC approval in 2018 is also considered an advanced nuclear facility.
Relevant Laws & Statutes
Relevant laws include:
10 CFR Part 950: This regulation outlines the standby support for certain nuclear plant delays, which includes definitions and provisions related to advanced nuclear facilities.
Energy Policy Act of 2005: This act encourages the development of advanced nuclear technologies and includes provisions for regulatory support.
State-by-State Differences
State
Regulatory Body
Notes
California
California Energy Commission
Strict regulations on new nuclear facilities.
Texas
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
More favorable regulatory environment for nuclear development.
Florida
Florida Public Service Commission
Encourages advanced technologies but has specific safety requirements.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with Related Terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Nuclear facility
A general term for any facility that produces nuclear energy.
Includes both advanced and older designs; does not specify approval date.
Reactor design
The specific engineering design of a nuclear reactor.
Refers to the technical specifications rather than regulatory approval.
Common Misunderstandings
What to Do If This Term Applies to You
If you are involved in the development or regulation of a nuclear facility, it is essential to understand the implications of being classified as an advanced nuclear facility. You may want to:
Consult with a legal professional specializing in energy law for guidance on compliance and regulatory requirements.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to nuclear facility applications and compliance documentation.
Stay informed about changes in regulations that may affect your facility's status.
Quick Facts
Attribute
Details
Approval Date
After December 31, 1993
Regulatory Body
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Design Requirements
Must not be similar to designs approved before the cutoff date
Key Takeaways
FAQs
An advanced nuclear facility is a nuclear power plant with a reactor design approved after December 31, 1993, by the NRC.
The approval date distinguishes newer, potentially safer designs from older ones that may not meet current safety standards.
You can check the NRC's database of approved reactor designs to determine if a facility qualifies as advanced.