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Global Collaboration Seen as a Good Thing for SMR Technology

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The nine-member International Nuclear Regulators’ Association (INRA) recently affirmed their commitment to collaborate with regard to the advancement of small modular reactor (SMR) technologies in terms of generic design assessment, as well as licensing.

In a joint statement released on Friday, May 26th, INRA officials pointed out that SMR technology has become the key focus of many nations across the globe in a bid to shift to non-fossil fuel-driven power generation. However, those who have expressed an interest in such technologies have yet to deal with the risks and challenges inherent in their deployment.

As such, INRA member countries recognize the opportunities in terms of innovations in safety performance that SMRs could offer. They also pointed out that regulatory bodies have a significant role to play with regard to ensuring the safe and secure deployment of SMR technologies in keeping with stringent requirements on non-proliferation.

Likewise, INRA member nations that are already pursuing innovative nuclear initiatives are set to establish both bilateral and multilateral agreements with other countries, essentially gaining the capacity to advise, guide, and share insights regarding regulatory evaluations, common resources, as well as lifecycle expertise.

INRA is currently made up of Canada, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Supporting Global Initiatives

The Association also expressed support for the Nuclear Harmonization and Standards Initiative proposed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), adding how its members recognize the need to have a coherent global framework for sharing information regarding new-generation nuclear technologies. 

Member-nations also took note of the challenges involved with regard to the development and future implementation of a global pre-licensing process for SMRS.

At the same time, however, the Association also declared that an international approach to such reviews should not supersede any regulatory activities done by individual nations.

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