Small Modular Reactor Site Evaluation
NRC requirements, seismic analysis, emergency planning, and grid interconnection for nuclear sites.
Seismic Weight
25pts
Categories
6
Long-Lead Equipment Timeline
Procurement Timelines (2025 Benchmarks)
Permitting Timelines
Critical Path Dependencies (Months)
Seismic & Geological Assessment (25 points)
Evaluates Safe Shutdown Earthquake (SSE) requirements, capable fault proximity, and foundation conditions per NRC 10 CFR Part 100. Sites must demonstrate seismic safety margins.
Population & Emergency Planning (20 points)
Analyzes Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) requirements, population density within 10-mile radius, and evacuation route adequacy. SMR designs may qualify for reduced EPZ sizing.
Heat Rejection & Water (20 points)
Assesses ultimate heat sink availability, cooling water sources, and thermal discharge constraints. Coastal and river sites offer advantages for heat rejection.
Grid Interconnection (15 points)
Evaluates transmission capacity, grid stability requirements, and interconnection queue position. SMRs require robust transmission for baseload delivery.
Site Characteristics (10 points)
Reviews flooding potential, severe weather risks, and security perimeter requirements. NRC design basis events drive site selection criteria.
Licensing Pathway (10 points)
Analyzes Early Site Permit (ESP) potential, Construction and Operating License (COL) timeline, and vendor-specific design certification status.