Licensing Model Development for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) - Focusing on the Finnish Regulatory Framework

Abstract

Recently, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) have attracted increased public discussion. While
\nlarge nuclear power plant new build projects are facing challenges, the focus of attention is
\nturning to small modular reactors. One particular project challenge arises in the area of nuclear
\nlicensing, which plays a significant role in new build projects affecting their quality as well as
\ncosts and schedules.
\nThis dissertation - positioned in the field of nuclear engineering but also with a significant section
\nin the field of systems engineering - examines the nuclear licensing processes and their suitability
\nfor the characteristics of SMRs. The study investigates the licensing processes in selected
\ncountries, as well as other safety critical industry fields. Viewing the licensing processes and their
\nseparate licensing steps in terms of SMRs, the study adopts two different analysis theories for
\nreview and comparison. The primary data consists of a literature review, semi-structured
\ninterviews, and questionnaire responses concerning licensing processes and practices.
\nThe result of the study is a recommendation for a new, optimized licensing process for SMRs.
\nThe most important SMR-specific feature, in terms of licensing, is the modularity of the design.
\nHere the modularity indicates multi-module SMR designs, which creates new challenges in the
\nlicensing process. As this study focuses on Finland, the main features of the new licensing
\nprocess are adapted to the current Finnish licensing process, aiming to achieve the main benefits
\nwith minimal modifications to the current process.
\nThe application of the new licensing process is developed using Systems Engineering,
\nRequirements Management, and Project Management practices and tools. Nuclear licensing includes a large amount of data and documentation which needs to be managed in a suitable
\nmanner throughout the new build project and then during the whole life cycle of the nuclear
\npower plant. To enable a smooth licensing process and therefore ensure the success of the new
\nbuild nuclear power plant project, management processes and practices play a significant role.
\nThis study contributes to the theoretical understanding of how licensing processes are structured
\nand how they are put into action in practice. The findings clarify the suitability of different
\nlicensing processes and their selected licensing steps for SMR licensing. The results combine the
\nmost suitable licensing steps into a new licensing process for SMRs. The results are also
\nextended to the concept of licensing management practices and tools.