Key Issue: Risk-Informed and Performance-Based Approach
Historically, plants were designed using deterministic methods on a component level with system classification and other design conditions as input. Although constructing components will remain largely a deterministic approach, there is a growing belief that a risk-informed, performance-based approach to select licensing basis events, safety classification of SSCs (SSC such as NEI 18-04 in the U.S.), and maintenance strategies (monitoring, nondestructive evaluation, and so on) would lead to a more optimized plant design for construction and operation. However, a probabilistic and system-based approach is more complex than current risk-informed methods, and many codes and standards are not directly compatible.
Priority
2
Status
On Track
Demonstrate Risk-Informed and Performance-Based Approach Standard: Develop and execute a pilot project that applies RIPB methods in development of a new AR standard jointly with US and Canada-based SDOs (potential cross-cut with International Harmonization action).
Action Owner: Standards Orgs, NGOs, Industry Groups, Developers
Need Date: 2025
Key Issue: Alignment and Improvement of Codes and Standards
The changes to the basic methodology and assumptions inherent in nearly all advanced reactor designs, construction methods, and operating parameters will need to be understood, challenged, and embraced. Advanced reactors will not come to fruition without industry, government, and public stakeholders stepping out of the legacy “this is how it’s always been done” mindset.
Priority
1
Status
On Track
Identify AR Codes &Standards gaps and timelines:
1) Consolidate and update prior AR C&S gap analyses
2) Define C&S development timelines for commercial relevance
3) Prioritize C&S gaps and associated actions
4) Secure resources to address AR Codes & Standards development gaps and timelines
Action Owner: Standards Orgs, NGOs, Industry Groups, Developers
Need Date: Gaps identified by 2024