CURRENT PROJECTS

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) sources indicate there are 53 nuclear reactors under construction globally. The U.S. has two nuclear reactors under construction, including the VOGTLE-3 and VOGTLE-4.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is tasked with regulating new reactor facilities. This process includes a review of applications submitted by prospective licensees, and when determined appropriate, the NRC issues standard design certifications, early site permits, limited work authorizations, construction permits, operating licenses and combined licenses.[3] Combined licenses (COL) authorize the licensee to construct – with specified conditions – and operate a nuclear power plant at a specific site.[4]

The NRC lists all COL applications that the Commission has received, to date. There are 18 proposed new reactors; however, 10 of them have either withdrawn or are suspended.[4]


Source: Nuclear Regulatory Commission, May 2020[4]

Updated by Theresa Pipher, November 2020