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Unlocking Advanced Nuclear Innovation: The Role of Fee Reform and Public Investment

Unlocking Advanced Nuclear Innovation: The Role of Fee Reform and Public Investment

Full Title: Unlocking Advanced Nuclear Innovation: The Role of Fee Reform and Public Investment
Author(s): Alex Gilbert
Publisher(s): Nuclear Innovation Alliance
Publication Date: May 19, 2021
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):

This report evaluates the history and effects of the licensing fee system at the
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), compares it to other regulatory agencies, finds
that the current fee system poses a barrier to carbon free advanced nuclear energy, and
recommends options for reform. NRC recovers its costs by charging industry for regulatory
activities, including licensing. The current fee model limits NRC’s capabilities to review
advanced reactors, slows innovation, and makes the U.S. a less attractive regulatory
environment. There is no evidence that the current fee model enables innovation. Alternative
models at other federal agencies provide examples for how fee models can support innovation,
particularly with clear and efficient regulatory processes. Compared to NRC fees, which cover
all an applicant’s costs, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) does not charge fees for
licensing. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) successfully balances public and private
funding to expeditiously review innovative activities. Fee reform for new license applicants is a
timely next step in the ongoing regulatory modernization at NRC.

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