▶ 0:17:26The subcommittee on energy will now come to order. The chair recognizes himself for five minutes for an opening statement. Good morning and welcome to today's hearing. We welcome chairman lee and the commissioners for today's hearing. It's been three years since we've had the full nrc, the nuclear regulatory commission, before the committee, and much has happened since then. The energy landscape has been changing during this period.
▶ 0:17:50We need more power for emerging industrial growth and ai race, as well as for more robust and more robust and reliable grid. We need dispatchable, reliable power and a lot more of it. Successful deployment of nuclear technologies promises to help meet future energy demand, as well as assist in a range of other applications beneficial to the society.
▶ 0:18:17Expanding nuclear deployment also promises to strengthen our national security by increasing nuclear commerce with allies and supporting a more cost effective nuclear industrial base. Of course, success depends on many factors beyond the nrc, however, successful rests on a regulatory system that will efficiently provide reasonable assurance that health and safety are adequately protected.
▶ 0:18:41Two years ago, congress took significant steps to optimize nrc's regulatory system so that it could be more effectively and efficiently carry out its vital role, while enabling large scale nuclear deployment. At the time, there was significant frustration at the aging is not up to the task. For example, nrc staff in 2023 failed to produce a new regulatory framework that was workable for advanced reactors, and the staff.
▶ 0:19:08New nuclear applicants would not use it. Energy and commerce members joined 20 senators and a bipartisan letter to the commission asking nrc to go back to the drawing board. We were concerned nrc was losing sight of its true mission. This concern resulted in the advance act, which focused on licensing efficiency, reducing costs and increasing predictability in rc licensing.
▶ 0:19:35It also forced focused on aligning nrc's mission so that it could do its work and service to a goal of fully achieving the benefits of nuclear energy. With the advance act, congress provided nrc the clear direction and tools to establish a strong licensing framework for nuclear deployment for the coming decades. The trump administration, as we all know, has also stepped up to advance nuclear on several fronts.
▶ 0:20:02It is accelerating regulatory reforms with executive orders consistent with the advance act for more efficient, risk informed licensing. It is developing a more holistic approach to nuclear deployment. How all this is coming together. Nrc is a central topic of today's hearing. In a january hearing, the subcommittee heard measured optimism. The nrc has been responding well to the task before it. The developing record supports this optimism.
▶ 0:20:30The nrc issued the final rule for a new advanced reactor framework, the one that had raised concerns just three years ago. The so-called part 53 rule looks to meet congressional intent, offering one of the most flexible frameworks in the world and making it easier for various technologies to work through the licensing process, and the cost for that process have been cut in half.
▶ 0:20:52The nrc is also working to to issue a number of rules responsive not only to the president but also to congress. These include rules that will enable regulation of microreactors, rapid licensing at existing sites and licensing of manufacturing processes so reactors can be built on assembly lines. The need for reforms from the fiscal responsibility act are expected to save substantial time and workload in deciding reviews.
▶ 0:21:21By some estimates, cutting workload by more than half and expedite and expediting decisions elsewhere. Nrc has already been completing licensing reviews under budget and ahead of schedule, with positive responses from the regulated industry seeking relicense and to build more reactors. And rc is seeking structural reforms to how it oversees the licensed fleet, prioritizing attention to what really matters in safety.
▶ 0:21:45We should discuss the challenges, of course, including how nrc is developing its workforce to meet the new licensing work and how it is working with the department of energy or other intergovernmental process.
▶ 0:22:00Given all the work underway, we should also ask what more congress may do to assist in setting nrc up for successfully implementing its important safety mission, a mission that, when well performed well, will lead to tremendous benefits for people across our nation. And with that, I yield back the balance of my time and recognize the gentlelady from florida, the ranking member of the subcommittee, for five minutes for an opening statement. >> good morning. Uh, thank you, Mr. chairman. Happy earth day to everyone.
▶ 0:22:29Uh, nuclear energy has been an area of bipartisan cooperation in this committee. Last congress, we passed the advance act, uh, that was signed by president biden to prepare the united states to lead the world in development and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors. Thank you, commissioner, for your leadership there. Uh, congresswoman degette as well.
▶ 0:22:50Former rep duncan, um, democrats also passed the bipartisan infrastructure law to safely ensure that existing nuclear plants were not retired prematurely. And the inflation reduction act that provided long term incentives for broader deployment of nuclear, including new technologies and advanced reactors with an eye towards energy workers, particularly in coal and distressed energy communities.
▶ 0:23:17The biden administration set a target of 300gw of nuclear energy capacity by 2050. And similarly, the trump administration has targeted 400gw ambitious goals. But these goals require bipartisanship, require an independent nuclear regulatory commission, and a nuclear industry that has the trust of the american people.
▶ 0:23:40Uh, president trump's actions, however, are jeopardizing that progress and that trust, and we should address it together. Last june, the president illegally fired commissioner christopher hanson without cause. That was the first time that an nrc commissioner had ever been fired. The president also issued executive has also issued executive orders directing the nrc.
▶ 0:24:06Again, an independent regulator, to reduce its workforce and modify safety rules, while urging hasty approval of nuclear reactors. The nrc has lost 400 professionals, particularly in offices, handling safety. That's concerning. Instead, the administration has deployed doge staffers with no experience in nuclear safety, and that is truly alarming.
▶ 0:24:31It appears that the white house is illegally trying to change approval processes to turn the nrc into a rubber stamp. We can't pretend that this is business as usual. The nrc is the international gold standard for nuclear energy safety, but the administration is actively undermining that reputation and could actually slow the deployment of nuclear energy, not just in the united states, but across the globe.
▶ 0:25:00There is a right way to do this. The nrc must license reactors efficiently, safely, safely, and transparently to deliver the resources we need while ensuring public confidence in nuclear power. Today, the trump administration and dosage are eating away at that confidence and safety of america's nuclear enterprise and our international alliances.
▶ 0:25:23China dominates the build out of new nuclear power plants, hosting nearly half of the reactors currently under construction globally. And here's the dirty little secret that the trump administration does not want you to know.
▶ 0:25:36Nuclear energy is at a disadvantage right now because of the way it is forced to compete with coal and gas that are heavily subsidized and heavily favored by the trump administration. And many in this congress. People are losing trust in the federal government. And why should they trust this administration?
▶ 0:26:03Over the last year, the department of energy killed over 300 energy projects. They canceled loans to build transmission lines. The administration illegally tried to impose a moratorium on offshore wind, even as americans are being crushed by high utility bills and the demand for power increases. And now the interior department won't even follow congressional orders to give us a status update on energy project permits.
▶ 0:26:28Solar batteries and wind are the resources that we have right now. They made up 92% of new U.S. power capacity last year. In comparison, energy secretary rice sat before this committee just last week and said, even for the nuclear reactors, that will be critical in the coming months. We're years away from plugging them into the grid and selling electricity.
▶ 0:26:53So if republicans want to ramp up nuclear energy resources and address the skyrocketing cost of for ratepayers, it's vital to understand that nuclear power is complementary to cheaper renewable energy and storage at this moment. Republicans say we need more energy to power the ai revolution, so they should stand up when the administration engages in corrupt, unfair practices that result in less energy.
▶ 0:27:19They should work with democrats to pass policy that actually brings costs down for our neighbors back home and develops more energy resources. That's our mission today, Mr. chairman. I look forward to our discussion and thank the nrc commissioners for being here. >> thank you very much. The gentlelady yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentleman from kentucky, the chairman of the full committee, for five minutes for an opening statement. >> thank you, chairman, and thank you for our witnesses for being here today.
▶ 0:27:47As we discussed nuclear safety and regulatory policy, today, our nation confronts an array of challenges that must be effectively addressed to secure our energy and economic future. Iran has exposed the harm that flows from allowing malign nations the ability to choke off global energy supplies, but china looms above all by seeking to reorient and dominate geopolitical relationships. It seeks to overtake america's economic and technological leadership, particularly in the race to dominate energy intensive ai.
▶ 0:28:19Meanwhile, we face unprecedented accelerating demand for more power generation here at home, now estimated at over 220gw to meet new peak demand over the next decade, while losing over 100gw of baseload power. However, nuclear technology and infrastructure can help us meet this challenge if nuclear deployments increase rapidly, as we hope weather to fill the dispatchable generation gap, or to meet various data center and industrial needs that will create a lot of sight and safety licensing work.
▶ 0:28:48So can the in our meet the pace and the scale of potential new licensing while assuring adequate safety. A key focus of this committee's work three years ago that became the advance act was to make sure nrc's vital safety net safety work would be performed in service to the mission that nuclear energy should be used for the common defense and to provide maximum benefit to society.
▶ 0:29:15This policy remains as important as ever and in addition to congress providing direction for the. For nrc, the trump administration's nuclear related executive orders have also helped focus nrc on efficient regulation. Recent nrc regulatory actions show positive signs that we're on the right track, and today we have an important opportunity to review your work. Let me let me welcome chairman nae and the commissioners.
▶ 0:29:43I look forward to discussion and I will yield back. >> thank you. The gentleman yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentleman from new jersey, the ranking member of the full committee, for five minutes for an opening statement. >> thank you, chairman latta. This is a precarious moment for our nuclear energy in america. On the one hand, there's more interest in nuclear energy and the carbon free power can deliver than at any time in the last 50 years.
▶ 0:30:07However, at the same time, the trump administration's actions have thrown the safety of the american civilian nuclear fleet into question. For the first time since the atomic energy act unlocked the peaceful use of nuclear power over 70 years ago. And the five commissioners before us today are the last line of defense for nuclear safety.
▶ 0:30:27Today, we should be talking about how the nrc is implementing the advance act, a historic package of reforms passed last congress to prepare our nation for a wave of advanced nuclear reactors. And we should be discussing how the commission is preparing itself to efficiency license advanced nuclear technologies. But the trump administration has made that impossible. The white house, the department of energy and even staff affiliated with doge have attacked the nrc's independence.
▶ 0:30:56Last year, president trump illegally fired former nrc chairman chris hansen, who should be sitting in front of us today. The doe's chief counsel for nuclear energy told his colleagues that, and I quote, the nrc is going to do whatever we tell the nrc to do. And this threat to the nrc's independence is simply unacceptable. 52 years ago, congress passed a law creating the nrc forever separating the parts of the government responsible for promoting nuclear energy from the parts responsible for making sure that nuclear energy is safe.
▶ 0:31:27And that was the right call then it remains the right call today. Actions to tear down that separation aren't just ill advised. They're dangerous and they jeopardize the future of nuclear energy in our nation. Whether or not nuclear energy has a bright future in the us may come down to how or if the nrc can protect its independence over the next few years. Commissioners, you have a duty to the american people to uphold that independence and ensure safe and secure nuclear energy in our nation. And I want to give credit where credit is due.
▶ 0:31:57Chairman lee, since assuming the chairmanship chairmanship of the commission earlier this year, I think your office has been a model for transparency. The nrc staff have consistently and thoroughly engaged with my staff. You've ensured that we are thoroughly briefed on the many changes that you're making to the nrc's rules to license nuclear reactors more efficient, more effectively, and the level of transparency you have shown should be the standard.
▶ 0:32:20But unfortunately, the department of energy has lagged far behind the nrc in this transparency area. I also want to praise a number of the efforts the commission has engaged in under your leadership. Seven years ago, the nuclear energy innovation and modernization act was signed into law. It required the nrc to issue a a rule to establish new technologically flexible process for licensing advanced reactors.
▶ 0:32:47And I'm pleased that last month the nrc was able to publish a final rule more than a year ahead of the deadline set out by the law, and I hope developers take advantage of it going forward. However, there are other changes by the commission that go too far. The changes made by the commission's reactor oversight program, the program responsible for ensuring the ongoing safety of existing operating reactors, go far beyond what was envisioned in the advance act.
▶ 0:33:12Those changes could result in nearly 40% of the reactor oversight staff losing their jobs or being reassigned. Frankly, after the staff turnover the commission has suffered throughout the last year as a result of doj's attacks. I don't think the nrc can afford another exodus of smart, talented employees.
▶ 0:33:30I also have deep concerns about effects to, I mean, efforts, I should say, to tie nrc licenses for commercial nuclear reactors, to research reactors permitted by the departments of energy and defense. I expect that there will be tremendous pressure on the commission to offer those research reactors a type of formal fast pass to nrc licensing, and that would be a disaster and would undermine the nrc's independence, and it should not happen.
▶ 0:33:57Finally, I want to end my remarks by reiterating a warning I issued last week when we had the energy secretary in front of us here, and I said it would be impossible for us to move forward on nuclear legislation as long as the nrc's independence is in question. So we simply cannot put the independence of nrc at risk. And with that, I thank you, and I yield back. Mr. chairman, the balance of my time. >> well, thank you very much. The gentleman yields back. This concludes members opening statements.
▶ 0:34:27The chair reminds members that pursuant to committee rules, all members opening statements will be made part of the record. Again, we want to thank our witnesses for appearing and taking the time to testify before the subcommittee. Each witness will have the opportunity to give an opening statement, followed by a round of questions for the members.
▶ 0:34:44Our five witnesses who are joining us today from the nuclear regulatory commission today are chairman ho k ni, commissioner david wright, commissioner bradley krogh, commissioner matthew marzano and commissioner douglas weaver. Again, thank you very much for appearing. Just real quick housekeeping. If you pull those mix up close when you use them, that'd be great. So that we know that they are working for you.
▶ 0:35:11And also the light will be green for four minutes, turning yellow when you have one minute left and turns red when we'd like you to wrap up. And with that, we appreciate again you testifying before us. And chairman, you are recognized for five minutes for your opening statement. Thank you. >> chairman latta, chairman guthrie, ranking members castor and pallone and members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today.
▶ 0:35:37The nuclear regulatory commission appreciates the bipartisan leadership of this committee through the advance act, which is guiding nrc's modernization to accelerate the deployment of new nuclear and expand existing capacity. The nrc's safety mission remains our top focus. Congress also mandated that the nrc's mission enable the safe and secure use of nuclear technologies through predictable and efficient regulation.
▶ 0:36:05In the regulatory context, enabling means aligning our regulations with actual risks, adapting to new technologies, and adding regulatory flexibility where safety is maintained. Enabling is how the nrc fulfills its safety commitment and delivers public benefit. America urgently needs more energy due to artificial intelligence, data centers and industrial growth.
▶ 0:36:33Nuclear is seen as essential to our energy security. The question now is execution. Can america build at scale, on schedule, and at lower cost? That is where the nrc matters. Regulatory uncertainty is capital risk and capital will go elsewhere if risk is too high. This is a defining moment for the nrc and for nuclear energy in america.
▶ 0:37:00What we do today will determine whether nuclear can be deployed at scale or remains limited to one off projects. As america's nuclear safety regulator, the nrc's role is clear our safety decisions must be credible, predictable and timely. Accordingly, the nrc is making reforms driven by congress and the president.
▶ 0:37:25And through this period of change, the nrc is engaging and coordinating with federal partners, including the department of energy. In doing so, the nrc safety decisions remain consistent with our mission and independent from the department of energy as we implement the advance act and executive order 14 300, the nrc is focusing on what matters most to safety by eliminating
▶ 0:37:57Unnecessary conservatisms and applying risk informed, performance based approaches consistently throughout the agency, the nrc is making major changes to how it oversees and licenses nuclear facilities in america. We are rebalancing our inspection programs to reflect the high levels of safety and security performance across the industry. We are delivering new licensing frameworks that are predictable, efficient and designed for deployment.
▶ 0:38:24Over the last year, the nrc has delivered results evidence of a more disciplined and efficient approach. We finalized part 53 ahead of schedule. We issued a construction permit for a non light water reactor. Nine months ahead of schedule. We approved the restart pathway for a permanently shutdown reactor. We renewed 13 operating reactor licenses.
▶ 0:38:50We issued a license for a triso fuel fabrication facility. Several months ahead of schedule. We launched a regulatory framework for fusion technologies, and we prepared 18 executive order 14,300 draft rulemakings. These results demonstrate that timely regulatory actions and a strong safety focus go hand in hand. This is how america will regain nuclear leadership.
▶ 0:39:19The nrc will not be an impediment to nuclear energy innovation. The success. And to meet this moment, I am focusing the agency on three priorities. First is core mission delivery with safety, efficiency and speed. Second is leadership and operational excellence in how we do business. Third is sustaining our performance through a culture of continuous improvement.
▶ 0:39:48Success in this moment depends on our staff at the agency. Every day, the dedicated staff of the nrc deliver on a safety mission that is essential for public trust in nuclear technologies. Delivering our mission also requires realistic planning, disciplined budget execution, and alignment with strategic goals.
▶ 0:40:11The nrc's fiscal year 27 budget reflects these principles, as well as the resources needed to accelerate the deployment of new nuclear, while ensuring the continued safety and security of existing facilities. Going forward, the american public can expect credible, predictable and timely decisions from the nrc. Thank you. I look forward to your questions. >> thank you very much. And, commissioner wright, you're recognized for five minutes for an opening statement. >> thank you. Thank you very much.
▶ 0:40:40And good morning, chairman, vice chair weber and ranking member castor and members of the committee. Um, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today. I appreciate the committee's bipartisan leadership and continued agreement of engagement with us at the nuclear regulatory commission.
▶ 0:40:58I want to thank our chairman for his leadership during this unprecedented time for nuclear energy and my fellow commissioners, for their dedication to the united states and for their collegiality as we help enable nuclear technology here and abroad. The nrc sits at the center of the nation's nuclear energy landscape. Since being confirmed to the commission in 2018, I have worked to transform the nrc into a more agile and modern regulator.
▶ 0:41:26In 2019, congress provided clear direction in nima to provide a path for licensing reactors for technology in a technology neutral manner that was efficient and streamlined while maintaining safety as our north star.
▶ 0:41:43The nrc took this directive and got to work the part 53 rule, making our risk informed technology inclusive regulatory framework is the culmination of that work, and I'm happy to say that we accomplished this nine months ahead of schedule. This rule represents one of the most significant updates, uh, updates to our regulatory approach in decades, providing a flexible foundation for advanced reactor technologies.
▶ 0:42:12This progress reflects the dedication and expertise of the nrc staff, whose commitment to professionalism and innovation continues to drive success. While this accomplishment is huge, the american people demanded more and in july of 24, congress passed and the president signed the advance act. The first thing the nrc did was to update its mission statement. The commission led initiative. And in. You know, we we led it.
▶ 0:42:41And my colleague to my left was critical working with me. Um, you know, this initiative was led by us. And in 25th january of 25, uh, published the nrc's new mission statement that provides clear direction that to the staff of the nrc, that we're here to enable the safe use and deployment of nuclear technologies for the betterment of society.
▶ 0:43:05In the year since, we have seen a sea change in culture, uh, of the staff and they're leaning in on the mission and providing results, all while keeping safety at the heart of every decision. This culture change is more evident in the revisions of our to our regulations.
▶ 0:43:23Directed by president trump's eo 14 300, the nrc is delivering efficient, streamlined regulations that will enable the deployment of nuclear energy to the country, all while remaining firmly committed to safety. At the heart of all these accomplishments are the dedicated people who work at the nrc every day. They bring their best selves to the agency, delivering results for the country.
▶ 0:43:46And as I've said many times before, the nrc is the best place and has the best people and the federal government. I stand by those words today, and I thank the staff for all that they do for the agency and the country. In closing, the nrc is delivering meaningful results through a modernized mission, a skilled workforce, and an unwavering focus on protecting public health and safety. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to your questions. >> well, thank you very much for your statement.
▶ 0:44:16And, commissioner kroll, you are recognized for five minutes for your opening statement. >> thank you. Thank you. Chairman. >> chairman guthrie, ranking member casper, and members of the subcommittee for inviting me and my fellow commissioners to appear before you today. Uh, today, we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture that will determine the future of commercial nuclear power, not just in the united states, but around the world.
▶ 0:44:38As I began my term on the commission in mid 2022, I was excited to get to work and help lead an ongoing transformation at the nrc that matched my growing confidence in our country's collective ability to position the U.S. as a world leader for the next generation of nuclear energy technologies. But most importantly, I. To do so while maintaining the united states hard earned, world class reputation for nuclear safety and security.
▶ 0:45:01And while change rarely happens as fast as any of us would like, I assure you that the nrc is moving with urgency in the right direction. I'm proud to have helped facilitate the many accomplishments and milestones achieved by agency staff in just the last few years. Chairman lee highlighted many of the nrc's most recent successes in his remarks, and I share his optimism that we are building a framework to accelerate further achievements in the next few years and beyond. However, success is far from guaranteed. Continued U.S.
▶ 0:45:29Leadership in nuclear energy generation rests on our nation's steadfast commitment to nuclear safety and security as we look ahead. My confidence in our nuclear fleet is buoyed by congress building and sustaining bipartisan support for nuclear power as an indispensable contributor to our nation's energy needs and in doing so, forgiving the the nrc, the policy direction and resources needed to modernize this approach to responsible nuclear regulation and oversight without sacrificing safety.
▶ 0:45:53I appreciate the current and past members of this committee for their help directing needed reforms at the nrc, including through the 2019 nuclear energy innovation and modernization act and the 2024 advance act. These key legislative accomplishments provided needed policy support to accelerate the nrc's ongoing efforts to modernize its regulatory approach and sharpen the agency's focus. As we establish a refreshed, a refreshed platform for success.
▶ 0:46:19To further advance these congressional efforts, the current administration issued executive order 14 300 last may ordering the reform of the nuclear regulatory commission. The thrust of the eo doubles down on much of the agency's ongoing work and related reform efforts. Viewed positively, the eo is a welcome recognition of the integral role the nrc can play in catalyzing the safe and secure deployment of new and advanced nuclear energy systems. But getting it right is more important than moving quickly in pursuit of artificial timelines.
▶ 0:46:44Keeping a pace and working efficiently are important, but moving with haste alone can quickly become counterproductive. The oft repeated mantra, fostering rapid advancements in many cutting edge technology sectors, is to move fast and break things. But while that ethos may apply well in some technology sectors, it is the antithesis of safe, secure and informed nuclear regulation. The legitimate need to enhance regulatory efficiencies without impacting safety is also the reason. My greatest concern as a commissioner today relates to the current and future nrc workforce. The agency is being directed to do more with less.
▶ 0:47:15This growing workload, workload and aggressive new timeframes for agency licensing and oversight activities. This is an unsustainable dynamic and my role as nrc commissioner, I'm often asked what keeps me awake at night as of late. My response is always to question whether we are doing enough to support and supplement our staff and ensure that the nrc workforce is robust and resourced to do the anticipated work coming before the agency, without sacrificing our commitment and attention to safety and security.
▶ 0:47:39My second greatest concern for fiscal year 20 2027 is the nrc's continued ability to execute on the nrc's full mission, including the oversight of our nation's current fleet of nuclear power reactors. While I wholeheartedly support the need to incorporate new efficiencies into all processes throughout the agency, we must not let the fervor of deregulation and a singular focus on operational efficiencies undermine the nrc's critical role in ensuring the continued safe and secure operation of existing nrc licensed facilities, for example, I'm concerned that shifting the agency's focus to
▶ 0:48:10Licensing activities too heavily or too quickly will come at the expense of maintaining sufficient talent and resources focused on our equally important oversight responsibilities. At this current juncture, the nrc can ill afford to to rob peter, to pay paul. Nor can we have unforced errors within our existing fleet of reactors and fuel facilities to rise to the momentous occasion before us. The nrc must also restore, build and maintain public trust.
▶ 0:48:34I'm concerned on this front because the surest way to undermine the public's confidence in nuclear safety and in the nrc's role as safety regulator is to decrease transparency. This maxim is true for all things nuclear, but this is particularly acute with respect to nuclear power generation and use fuel management. Over the past year, circumstances have clouded stakeholder belief in the agency's commitment to transparency.
▶ 0:48:53As a pillar of the nrc's principles of good regulation, the agency's ability to seek and receive valuable input from external experts, non-governmental agencies, trade associations, members of the public and all other stakeholders has been hampered as we embark on the retooling of the nrc's entire regulatory framework. As we modernize the nrc, we must retain a reasonable ability to engage proactively and transparently with regulated entities and all other and all stakeholders.
▶ 0:49:18Failure to do so risks undermining public trust and forfeiting the social license essential to to an enduring future for nuclear technologies. Lastly, I see in the current cadre of nrc commissioners a set of leaders with diverse skill sets and unique perspectives that constitute the right mix at the right time for effectively leading the nrc. At this critical juncture, we each understand and appreciate the necessity and value of working as a collegial, collegial policymaking body.
▶ 0:49:43In conclusion, with adequate resources for the agency with clear, consistent leadership, I believe the nrc can achieve many great things. I intend to do my part to ensure we meet our responsibilities to the nrc workforce and our obligations to the american public for whom we serve. Thank you, Mr. chairman. I look forward to your questions. >> thank you very much. Uh, commissioner manzano, you're recognized for five minutes for opening statement. >> thank you. Chairman, ranking member castor and the members of the subcommittee.
▶ 0:50:11And thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today. 70 years ago, president eisenhower stood before the united nations to present his vision for the peaceful use of nuclear technology to a world that had crossed the threshold in the atomic age. The atoms for peace program that followed established the groundwork for international civil nuclear cooperation and reoriented the atomic energy commission towards transparency and a dual mandate to promote and regulate nuclear technology for commercial purposes.
▶ 0:50:39Thus, the agency became tasked with fulfilling a defining premise of eisenhower's address that this greatest quote, this greatest of destructive forces, can be developed into a great boon for the benefit of all mankind. End quote. The nuclear enterprise in the united states sits at a similar yet distinct crossroads today. The extraordinary promise of emerging emerging nuclear technologies has converged with a geopolitical urgency to address energy security and climate change.
▶ 0:51:09The interests of industry, government and the public have aligned in ways not seen in a generation. Yet many of the same pressures and expectations that tested the atomic energy commission endure in this moment. And today, the nuclear regulatory commission has inherited this responsibility to enable the safe use of this technology while ensuring adequate protection of public health and safety.
▶ 0:51:33For many years, nrc staff have identified reforms that could improve efficiency without compromising safety. Some of those ideas have been discussed, studied but eventually deferred further. In the past, rulemaking has often been overly burdensome and lengthy multi-year rulemaking efforts with extensive layers of internal review can create uncertainty, consume resources, and delay benefits without proportionate gains in safety.
▶ 0:52:02In that context, I view the directives of the advance act and the executive orders as providing a vehicle and, frankly, the encouragement to modernize and incorporate regulatory reforms that have long been contemplated but not fully realized. But I would also emphasize that modernization must be approached with care and discipline.
▶ 0:52:23The nrc's credibility earned over decades is rooted in a deliberate, evidence based approach to decision making, public trust, safety margins, and the long term viability of nuclear energy all depend on getting this right. Moving too quickly and without sufficient technical grounding risk, undermining the very goals we are trying to achieve.
▶ 0:52:43Building and sustaining a regulatory system that is both modern and durable depends on two foundational elements research and workforce. Simply stated, robust research provides the technical basis for informed decision making. It reduces uncertainty, supports risk, inform regulation, and broadens our capability to assess new technologies on their merits.
▶ 0:53:09Without it, we are left to rely on assumptions and unnecessary conservatism where we should be relying on evidence and data. Equally important is the strength of our workforce. The nrc's effectiveness depends on its expertise, independence, and the judgment of its people. As technology. As technologies evolve, so too must our capabilities. Investing in the next generation of engineers, safety analysts and regulatory professionals is not optional.
▶ 0:53:38It is essential to sustaining our mission. That is why I remain focused on addressing our workforce challenges. This involves an honest assessment of the reasons individuals may choose to leave the nrc and implementing solutions to address them. We must better leverage our hiring and compensation authorities and implement work life flexibilities to attract and retain talent and incentivize public service.
▶ 0:54:02In closing, modernization is both necessary and achievable, but it must be done in a way that preserves the principles that have served this nation well. Independence, rigor, and an unwavering commitment to safety. If we pair thoughtful reform with strong investment in research and people, we can build a regulatory framework that supports innovation while maintaining the public trust that is the cornerstone of our work.
▶ 0:54:32Thank you, and I look forward to your questions. >> well, thank you very much for your opening statement. And, commissioner weaver, you are recognized for five minutes for your opening statement. >> thank you. >> chairman lauder, ranking member castor and members of the subcommittee. Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you with my colleagues to discuss the us nuclear regulatory commission's efforts to enable the safe and secure use of nuclear technologies for the benefit of our nation.
▶ 0:54:59Today marks the completion of my fourth month on the commission. In that short time, I've had the privilege of acting on many policy and rulemaking policy issues and rulemaking activities that are the culmination of the nrc staff work for many months and in some cases years prior to my arrival. It is an exciting time to be at the nrc.
▶ 0:55:19I've approached my role with a safety focused, independent mindset and a regulatory philosophy grounded in three principles modernization of our regulatory framework, risk informed and performance based decision making, and accountability and transparency to the american public. These principles guide my support for reforms to the nrc's licensing, oversight, and organizational processes.
▶ 0:55:45They reflect both the long standing principles of the nrc's principles of good regulation, and are responsive to the clear direction congress has provided through the mandates. In the advance act, nrc is delivering in a big way and will continue to do so as we implement our new organizational model, new regulations, and more risk informed programs.
▶ 0:56:07While the work continues to modernize our structure and regulatory framework to set up the country for future success, we are also delivering on today's needs. I'd like to highlight a few of those accomplishments. Some of these the chairman has already mentioned, and our staff has developed a safe pathway for restart of formally shut down reactors.
▶ 0:56:28To add more power to the grid, the staff completed thorough licensing reviews, enabling palisades to become the first permanently shut down reactor in us history to move back towards operational status. Staff oversight continues with rigorous inspections to ensure that palisades will meet all safety and regulatory requirements before its restart.
▶ 0:56:52Likewise, at the crane clean energy center in pennsylvania, nrc staff is conducting licensing and inspection activities to support a licensee projected restart next year. I recently traveled to both palisades and crane and was impressed with the nrc teams that are overseeing our inspection activities. We are fortunate to have such highly trained and dedicated public servants. Nrc approved the construction permit for application for terrapower's natrium reactor in wyoming.
▶ 0:57:20The first nine non light water reactor approval in 40 years. The staff's review was completed ahead of schedule and in less than 18 months, a robust fuel cycle will be needed to support our country's nuclear energy ambitions. So I'd also like to mention the recently issued license to triso for the first of a kind, high assay, low enriched uranium fuel fabrication facility in oak ridge, tennessee.
▶ 0:57:46Nrc stands ready to meet the country's needs today and will be even better positioned to do so in the near future. I would describe the work we are doing as transformational. The full scope of the changes will become apparent as the commission deliberates on, and issues the full suite of proposed rules in the coming months.
▶ 0:58:06These regulatory changes, in conjunction with the cultural and organizational alignment in progress, will result in an nrc that is both safety focused and a true enabler of nuclear technology. That's the vision. I am committed to advancing that vision through my votes, my engagement with the staff and stakeholders, and my work with my colleagues on the commission. I appreciate the committee's oversight and look forward to your questions.
▶ 0:58:34>> well, thank you very much for all of your opening statements. We greatly appreciate it. This will conclude the opening statements from our witnesses, and we'll move into our question and answer portion of the hearing. I'm going to begin the questioning. Recognize myself for five minutes. You know, first, I won't go down the line. But the first question I usually ask everybody that comes before the subcommittee is, do we need to have more energy produced in this country? Would you all agree to that? Do we need to have more power? Thank you very much.
▶ 0:59:00Uh, chairman, if I could start some questions with you. You know, one of the things I think I heard from all of the from you and from the commissioners are that, you know, that you're looking at actual risk, adapting new technologies and adding flexibility.
▶ 0:59:17Uh, you know, we've heard from, uh, our members in the past and also now about how things have been at the nrc, what's happened in the last couple of years now that it seems like you're all running, running on the same page with one another. >> thank you for the question. Uh, chairman lada, I think the advance act was a very important piece of legislation. Legislation.
▶ 0:59:46And one of the things that I found most meaningful in that act was bringing in the enabling element of our mission alongside our safety focus. The nrc has an incredibly dedicated, technically competent workforce that has had a tremendous safety focus over its history and now bringing in this enabling component and using that as kind of the engine behind our regulatory activities and what we're looking at in terms of supporting the accelerated deployment of new nuclear technologies and expanding the
▶ 1:00:17Existing capacity, all while maintaining safety. Enabling has provided the nrc with that strong sense of purpose to do something that benefits the american people by delivering safe and secure nuclear technology to meet our energy needs. >> let me follow up with this. Um, are we keeping up with the rest of the world now when we're talking about nuclear technology?
▶ 1:00:40>> uh, in my opinion, chairman lada, I think there are some countries, particularly russia and china, that are, uh, they're building reactors at a pace much faster than the united states, I believe, through the regulatory actions that we are taking to safely provide safe and predictable and efficient frameworks to enable deployment in the united states will help us keep pace with other countries.
▶ 1:01:03And also, what we are doing here in the united states is something that could help the united states export its technologies to our allies around the world. And moreover, there is I was just in vienna, austria, last week to represent the united states at the convention on nuclear safety and many countries around the world, in europe and in asia, are facing the same demand from their governments to have their regulatory bodies undergo significant regulatory reforms so they could bring the
▶ 1:01:33Energy that they need to their country. So we are at the forefront of of that. I've heard from many of my international colleagues that they are, you know, eager to see what nrc is doing. And I think us leading the way will help us catch up to other countries that are able to build faster. >> one last question for you. And if I ask this one quickly for you on our small modular reactors, because, you know, these are something that we're going to have to have deployed sooner than later and we're hearing six, seven years.
▶ 1:02:00Is there a way to see about smrs getting these out sooner? And of course, always safely. >> so some of the things that create bottlenecks in the delivery of new nuclear are things that go beyond what nrc can do. Things typically, things that get in the way of deployment are typically finance, supply chain and the workforce to, to build.
▶ 1:02:27Uh, what I would share with you, chairman lada, is that the nrc is not the regulatory process is not going to be an impediment for deployment of nuclear technologies, whether it's an smr, a microreactor or a large light water reactor.
▶ 1:02:41So the nrc is working toward having efficient, predictable frameworks that provide for credible safety decisions from the nrc so that when the financing requirements are met, the supply chain is solid and the workforce is there to build, then we can execute. >> thank you. Uh, commissioner, right now I've got about 50s left. Um, you know, you talked about more agile model, uh, modern, uh, regulators and regulations out there, always keeping safety first.
▶ 1:03:11Uh, how's how's the, uh, the work been with working from the nrc with the companies out there? I've only got about 30s. >> yeah. So last year was a, you know, a very difficult year in some ways because we lost a lot of people. But it was an opportunity for people to do things that that, you know, skill set the nrc has, you know, made them attractive. Um, and so we had people that, that took that opportunity.
▶ 1:03:38Um, and which is, which is great, but we, we, the people who stayed with us, uh, are very passionate about what they do and people who might have had to wait a little bit of time before they had to get that opportunity. They stepped up. Um, and they are producing and they're creating their own legacy now. >> well, thank you very much. My time has expired. There's so many questions in such little time. Uh, the chair recognizes the gentlelady from florida, the ranking member of the subcommittee for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, Mr. chairman.
▶ 1:04:07And thank you again to all the nrc commissioners for being here today, but for your service to our country, uh, commissioners crowell and marzano, uh, when you appeared before the environment and public works senate committee last fall, you both indicated that you could be fired by the president if you refuse to approve an administration favored nuclear reactor design due to safety concerns. Is this still the case? >> thank you for the question.
▶ 1:04:36Um, my belief remains unchanged that I could be fired by the president at any time for any reason. Thank you. >> yes. Uh, ranking member castor, while you know the dynamics of the commission have changed with the new makeup and bringing on, um, commissioner weaver and chairman, chairman lee, uh, the fact does remain that it is still a distinct possibility that we can get fired. Um, I'll caveat that it could it's not very clear what exactly that reason would be.
▶ 1:05:05Um, but it's certainly still a possibility. >> including approval of an administration favored nuclear reactor design. >> that could be a potential reason. >> having the specter of being fired, um, hanging over all commission decisions decreases the commission's credibility. Credibility that the chairman needs identified in his testimony as critical to the commission's mission. And I agree with that.
▶ 1:05:32But I also agree, commissioner karl, with your the point you made in your testimony that transparency is critical to the nrc's credibility. Um, talk about how some of the changes made to the nrc's transparency processes over the last 15 months have undermined public trust in the commission. >> thank you for the question.
▶ 1:05:57One of the big changes from compared to past practices is that we're now, um, no longer able to share a proposed rulemaking with the regulated community and get their feedback to help craft and design the best rules. Um, a separate eo separate from eo 14, 300 requires all of nrc's rulemakings to go through omb, which is a change from the past at, at, at the nrc.
▶ 1:06:21Uh, that certainly changes the, you know, that closes the door in terms of external awareness and engagement, um, and changes the dynamic that we've traditionally worked under, uh, nuclear is a bit unique in the fact that transparency is, you know, is paramount. Uh, the regulated industry wants to know, uh, wants to have a hand in helping craft things, um, and know what's coming. I think that's in this case important for crafting good rules, but other stakeholders need to be involved as well.
▶ 1:06:51And right now it's a black box. >> and, and could that have the opposite effect of what is intended to, to ensure not just the, the safe, uh, licensing of new nuclear technologies, but it could delay things over time if you do not have robust, uh, public and stakeholder engagement. >> yeah, it very much calls into question the durability of the rules we put out.
▶ 1:07:13And, uh, and our, if we're unwilling to extend comment periods to give a reasonable amount of time, uh, for, uh, external entities to review the voluminous amount of rulemaking we're doing that will call into question further. >> it's very concerning. Chairman. Uh, from the weekly reports, nrc submits the number of nrc departures has not slowed down since january of 2025.
▶ 1:07:37It appears that over 500, uh, professional staffers have left with only 65 arrivals, about a 15% decrease in staffing. I certainly heard, um, commissioner wright compliment the dedicated people at the nrc. Uh, commissioner krull highlighted the greatest concern is the current and future nrc workforce, the shifting of talent.
▶ 1:07:59What is the commission doing to help retain and recruit staff with the application and pre-application engagement? Uh, what are you concerned about having technical staff burnout and and folks continue to leave. >> thank you. Ranking member castor, I believe that I am fully aligned with my fellow commissioners, that our people are our greatest asset and they are a priority for this agency.
▶ 1:08:28The nrc has a very strong workforce, a dedicated workforce committed to the mission. Uh, we do appreciate the hiring authorities and, uh, that have been afforded in the advance act. And we right now are through our executive director for operation implementing a human capital strategy to ensure that we're recruiting and retaining the key skill sets we need to deliver our safety and mission effectively to the united states. So we have a staffing plan for our new organization we're hiring to fill those vacancies.
▶ 1:08:56To put it in perspective, we have roughly 120 people less than what we have requested in our fiscal year 27 budget. We feel very confident that we can fill those vacancies again using the hiring authorities and the advance act, as well as the additional tools that we're working internally with the agency to recruit and retain our staff. >> thank you very much. I yield back. >> thank you very much. The gentlelady yields back.
▶ 1:09:22The chair recognizes the chairman of the full committee, the gentleman from kentucky, for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, Mr. chairman, for yielding the time. Thank you for being here to to the nrc. Uh, so this is a question to all commissioners. Uh, the advance act was largely driven about driving nrc to improve its performance, to meet an influx of new license applications. And still and that's important. Perform its safety mission.
▶ 1:09:46It looks like you are, uh, improving performance for the influx of licenses and meeting your safety mission. So I would say the nrc seems to be firing on all cylinders right now. Would you all agree with that's got to be yes or no. I guess that the nrc anybody have any say the nrc is not going in the right direction, I guess because I think all of you would agree. Thank you. So, chairman neil, on the nuclear renaissance, I guess the record should reflect you all said yes. Right. Okay, good.
▶ 1:10:12Um, chairman you were on staff at nrc during the last nuclear renaissance in the mid 2000 time frame. Unfortunately, that didn't really materialize like it was hoped. What do you think is different this time around? I know we're asking a lot of people to invest a lot of money in nuclear power because we know we need it. And so what's different this time around? >> thank you for the question, chairman guthrie. Yes.
▶ 1:10:35Uh, in the last renaissance, the nrc hired a lot of people for what they anticipated in new reactor licensing applications. And what is different now really ties back to this enabling element of our mission, which is really that sense of purpose for our agency. So we have this enabling aspect and what we're also doing differently. Instead of just hiring people to handle the work, we are fundamentally looking at how we make these decisions.
▶ 1:11:04We recognize that our regulatory regulations were built decades ago when we didn't know as much as we know today. So we are fundamentally looking at our regulatory licensing frameworks to be able to deliver credible safety decisions and working smarter, not harder, and not just by hiring new people. >> okay. Thank you. Because the thing about, you know, we need, I think I said 200mw of gigawatts of power, 200. And so, uh, you know, people are going to make investments.
▶ 1:11:32They need to know there's some basis of stability, you know, as we move forward. So thanks for your work. So a reorganization again, chairman, uh, earlier this week, nrc issued its reorganization plan, which you can intend to complete by mid-summer. How would this reorganization plan improve your work to license new reactors and conduct oversight?
▶ 1:11:53>> uh, chairman guthrie, the reorganization, one key aspect of it in supporting licensing work is that we created the office of advanced reactors, which is going to have dedicated leadership and technical staff to support the license, anticipated licensing that comes before the agency. So that is probably the the main area and supporting deployment.
▶ 1:12:12Um, what I will also say is that we are now focusing the office of nuclear reactor regulation on the licensing activities that will support the expansion of existing nuclear capacity in the united states through things like power up rates, license renewals, and other risk informed programs. >> okay. So so would you also explain briefly how nrc is going to treat applications from reactors authorized by doe?
▶ 1:12:37>> yes, we we recently just published for public comment a rule that lays out how we are going to, uh, allow information to be referenced for reactor designs previously authorized by the department of energy or the department of war.
▶ 1:12:52We're currently developing the staff guidance, and the short version of it is that we will use the information from other authorizations, and we will validate how that information meets our regulatory requirements. We're going to do it efficiently. We are not going to be a rubber stamp, but there's no need to retread the tire on things that we feel we have confidence in that meets our regulations.
▶ 1:13:16If there are things in our regulations that aren't covered by the other authorization programs, we will do our independent review. >> okay. Do all the commissioners agree that's the right track to take? Everybody's kind of saying, yes. All right. I see there's no dissent on that question. So that's just the point that I that I want to make is that you guys are extremely important. And we we value your independence. I think that's extremely important as well.
▶ 1:13:44But also working with the department of energy as we have this great renaissance of american manufacturing, american technology, productivity that's coming. But it takes energy to drive all of that. And I think a lot of us agree on both sides of the aisle. Nuclear is dispatchable. Space load and carbon free. So I know a lot of people prefer that that route, and we have to be able to do it. We're asking for a lot of investment to do it. And knowing that we work together to get it done.
▶ 1:14:11But knowing that you take the safety of american citizens more in the world, really, and nuclear is important and independent as you do is important. So I thank you and I will yield back. >> thank you. The gentleman yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentleman from new jersey, the ranking member for the full committee, for five minutes for questions. >> thank you. >> last week, energy secretary reich came before the subcommittee and he said that it is, quote, critically important that the nrc be independent.
▶ 1:14:39And he rebuked a doe employee who said that the nrc would do whatever the doe wanted it to do. And while I'm skeptical that everyone in the trump administration agrees with secretary wright on this point, I want to ensure that all of you do. So let me just go down the line for yes or no question. Do you think that it's critical to the future of nuclear energy in this country, that the nrc retain its independence? Chairman lee? >> yes. >> um, commissioner crowell. Yes. Commissioner marzano.
▶ 1:15:12>> yes, commissioner. >> right. Yes. We have a lot of rights around here. And commissioner weaver. >> yes. >> well, thank you, and I appreciate that because I do believe that any potential nuclear renaissance will be cut short if the nrc can't guarantee its independence. And so I was glad to hear that from secretary wright and from all of you as well. But we do need to ensure that safeguards are in place to fight against encroachment by the white house. So let me start with commissioners kral and marzano.
▶ 1:15:41Do nrc commissioners and staff have adequate ways to speak up if they feel that the safety of the nuclear industry or the independence of the nrc is being threatened? And what can the commission do to ensure that staff have a way to speak up when there is improper influence? I'll start with commissioner kral. >> yes, I believe that's still the case, both for commissioners as well as for staff.
▶ 1:16:06But the the telltale sign will be when you speak out, if there are negative repercussions, that would call into question our independence. But, um, right now it's well known that, uh, the, the, the commission has an open door for all staff to come in and discuss any issues that they want. And, uh, commissioners, uh, inherent in the nature of their job should be able to speak on whatever topics they want in their own capacity. >> well, thank you, commissioner marzano.
▶ 1:16:32>> yes, I agree with my colleague that staff do have the avenues available to them right now. Um, but it's our responsibility as the commission to continue to reinforce our policy on safety culture, ensuring that those pathways remain available. Um, and yes, time will tell as far as, as we get down the road with some of the, some of the rulemaking efforts that we have going on right now, um, whether or not staff will feel, uh, able to, to raise those issues without fear of retaliation.
▶ 1:17:02>> so are you suggesting that some of the rulemaking that you've talked about might address that? Is that. >> I would say that, uh, you know, as, as we are negotiating and working on these rulemakings that dissenting opinions inevitably do occur and staff should feel the confidence or have the confidence to raise those issues and those dissenting opinions. Um, and they have continued today, they have them and they will have them in the future. >> all right. Thank you.
▶ 1:17:27Last thing I wanted to talk about nrc's changes to the reactor oversight process or rfp. Last month, the nrc overhauled the rfp for the first time in 25 years. And while I'm supportive of the commission finding efficiencies, I do worry that a reduced focus on reactor oversight could eventually erode the important safety culture that has developed at our nation's reactor operators.
▶ 1:17:49So let me ask the same two guys, uh, commissioner crowell and reza, how can the nrc ensure that the changes made to the rfp ultimately promote efficiency instead of eroding safety? >> I think as commissioners are going to remain vigilant to ensure we don't find ourselves on a slippery slope with regard to oversight.
▶ 1:18:09And it's, uh, it's important to note that the, um, the, you know, the world class safety record of the us nuclear fleet is, uh, due in large part to the rfp, not in spite of it. And I'm worried that if we move too quickly to, uh, uh, minimize our inspection and oversight programs, uh, we're going to see some, uh, you know, we're going to end up with unforced errors or negative results that are going to impact our entire effort to move towards a renaissance. >> commissioner marzano.
▶ 1:18:40>> yes, I think there's a couple aspects here. One is that we have a oversight program that is responsive to fleet performance. And so if we are seeing declines in certain indicators and things like that, uh, the rfp process should, uh, react to that and ensure that, um, continued, sustained, high performance of the fleet, uh, remains, um, the, the other aspects here, I think that are very important, um, is that we were able to collect that data that gives us the ability to
▶ 1:19:11Trend and analyze and look out for those performance declines. And so, um, what we've done as a commission in the recent rfp, uh, is ask the staff to provide, um, self-assessment in the next 24 months of the changes. Um, and we should continue to have that, um, as part of the rfp process moving forward to ensure that we're on a path of continuous improvement, um, in maintaining the, the operating performance of the, of the existing fleet. >> well, thank you all, gentlemen. Thank you, Mr.
▶ 1:19:42Chairman. >> thank you very much. Gentleman yields back. Chair now recognizes the gentleman from georgia's 12th district for five minutes for questions. >> uh, thank you, chairman, for holding this important hearing today. Uh, with the commissioners from the nuclear regulatory commission. Nuclear energy is critical for our energy security here in the united states as it is affordable, reliable, and clean with, uh, base load capacity.
▶ 1:20:08I'm no stranger to the role and importance of nuclear, uh, of the nuclear regulatory commission is my district. Uh, the 12th district of georgia is home to plant vogel. Plant vogel has units three and four, which just came on, uh, operation. And they're the first nuclear reactors built in the united states in over three decades, uh, with units three and four in full commercial operation. Plant. Vogel is the largest nuclear power station in the country.
▶ 1:20:34I'm proud of all the co-owners who persevered through this project. And it shows america actually can do big things. Plant. Vogel three and four were the first nuclear units constructed under ten cfr part 52.
▶ 1:20:49Chairman and I, as I understand it, the promise of this one step licensing regime is that once the resource intensive licensing and construction of the first plant of a particular design or reference plan in part 42 parlance has been completed, follow up on applications to build the same as constructed lead plant design would realize significant savings and expedited review. Uh.
▶ 1:21:17Now that plant vogel's units three and four, the ap 1000 reactors are operating. Westinghouse has submitted an update to the ap design to reflect vogel four as built. Chairman. Now what order of magnitude in resource and schedule savings should a future applicant referring the plant vogel for completed reactor design expect to see. >> thank you, congressman allen for the question.
▶ 1:21:43Uh, we the nrc learned a lot from the vogel three and four experience in implementing part 52. And many of those lessons are being brought into some of the broader rulemaking activities that we are pursuing under the executive order 14,300 in making improvements for greater flexibility.
▶ 1:22:02In part 52 notwithstanding, we just received the latest revision for the westinghouse ap1000 design, and that was basically taking what unit four looks like and putting that into the certified design. We expect to make that safety decision in a credible manner in a very expedited period of time, probably before the end of this year.
▶ 1:22:24In relation to future ap 1000 activities, again, based on the experience and the certified design, we're not looking at things we haven't seen before. So an applicant can expect significant improvements to the timeliness of a licensing decision. >> great, good. Thank you. Any of the other commissioners wish to weigh in on, uh, this process? No comment. Okay. All right. Um.
▶ 1:22:50Uh, last congress, we made great strides in advancing nuclear energy policy, most notably with the advance act provisions for my bill, the nuclear license efficiency act was signed into law as part of the advanced act. Part of my bill was to improve the licensing process. Uh, and this is for any of the commissioners that would like to weigh in.
▶ 1:23:16How is the nrc been implementing these provisions, which included periodic updates to performance metrics, use of existing licensing basis when licensing reactors, that existing site? And are there any challenges in this licensing process? And I would open that up to any commissioners that would like to respond. >> yes. Thank you for the question, congressman.
▶ 1:23:40Um, I think one of the most transformative, uh, efforts under the licensing efficiency is how we communicate with applicants during the license review process. Um, last year, um, the former executive director for operations directed staff to look at what we call consultation versus guidance.
▶ 1:23:58It is a, um, a principle that drives staff interactions to not cross the line into where we would be providing any particular applicant with, uh, additional information that we wouldn't give to anyone else. Um, that has in the past hindered, uh, open and frank exchange. Um, and really, when you talk about delays, it is the exchange of this information and requests for additional information where, um, this lack of understanding can develop and delay the process.
▶ 1:24:25And so, uh, what I've heard from stakeholders is they've come in is a dramatic shift in how they interact with staff and the information that they get. >> okay. Any other comments? Uh, well, I'm out of time, but I will say we had a dinner last night with atlantic energy.
▶ 1:24:41And I will say that technology has really improved our ability to process all of this information and get this permitting under control and get these we got to get these things built across the country. And I do appreciate all of you being here today and your work in this important endeavor. And I yield back, Mr. chairman. >> the gentleman yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentleman from california's 50th district for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, Mr. chairman.
▶ 1:25:11Thanks to the witnesses for being here. The san onofre nuclear generating station are songs. Uh, sits just outside of my district in san diego on a beautiful stretch of the california coast. Um, the spent nuclear fuel at songs is within 100ft of the pacific ocean, sits near dense population centers and active military base and multiple fault lines. The gao, the government accountability office, has rated the flood hazard level at the site as high and the wildfire potential as very high.
▶ 1:25:41Right now, we are on schedule to fully decommission the plant by 2028. Uh. However, one thing that will remain on site after the plant is demolished is the spent nuclear fuel and dry storage. What happens to that spent fuel matters greatly to the people of southern california and my district in san diego. My constituents, along with many around the country, know we need a long term fix for spent nuclear storage. Fuel storage and decades of inaction have led us to where we are today, and we can't wait any longer.
▶ 1:26:08I was encouraged to see the department of energy's request for information gauging nationwide interest on which states would be willing to accept spent fuel for nuclear lifecycle innovation. Campuses. I've expressed concern about the consent based process before. I'm a skeptic. A little bit about the viability of getting consent from a community to take the waste for storage. I'm also concerned, if you got consent, that the geology would be appropriate for nuclear storage.
▶ 1:26:37Um, but I will be closely monitoring and hope that we can, um, since we've chosen this path, we can come up with something, um, viable and useful. Uh, Mr. chairman. The chairman need that the nrc is responsible for regulating the safe storage of spent fuel at reactor sites. Doe is responsible for its long term storage. Um, if we can find a long term solution to spent nuclear fuel.
▶ 1:27:00Do you see any issues with nrc being prepared to work with doe to begin transferring spent fuel to those long term storage sites? Do you have any concerns about that? >> uh, no, sir. We will stand ready to fulfill our safety obligations for whatever approaches decided. >> okay, great.
▶ 1:27:17One thing that's gotten a lot of attention, um, recently is, is the viability of spent nuclear fuel recycling, uh, and, um, both for using spent fuel and for shoring up supply chains for certain classes of reactors. Uh, I have a bill to refuel act, which I lead with the nuclear refuel act, which I leave with chairman robert latta.
▶ 1:27:40Um, that would streamline the licensing process for certain fuel reprocessing facilities without compromising safety or the nrc's mission. That bill passed out of the senate environment and public works committee on a strong bipartisan vote. I look forward to seeing it in this committee and hoping that it becomes law. Um, chairman, if this bill becomes law, will you be able to to, um, license these facilities in a timely manner? Uh, we do foresee having to do a rulemaking.
▶ 1:28:08How do you think that implementation will go and what will be the challenges we face in getting that, um, get those facilities into the ground. >> thank you. Congressman. Yes, we, we envision being able to license these type of facilities in a timely manner as part of the overall rulemaking efforts under the executive order 14,300, there are active, uh, activities at the agency looking at being able to enable safe and secure use of these types of technologies. We'll be ready. >> okay, great.
▶ 1:28:36I just want to say thank you for, um, all endorsing the concept of bipartisanship. I know there's a lot of, uh, there's a lot of, um, back and forth, uh, politically in this town, uh, more than I've seen in most of my time in congress. Um, I just ask you to keep your heads down. Um, follow the science, do the right thing, uh, and continue to serve the country in an honorable way. And I yield back. >> thank you. The gentleman yields back.
▶ 1:29:02Just to let members know a vote has been called. We got we have two votes. There's about 13 minutes left. So we're going to do try to get a couple more members in the chair. Recognizes the gentleman from ohio's 12th district for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, Mr. chairman, and thank you all for being here. And I have the same sentiment that Mr. peters also has. So thank you for being here today.
▶ 1:29:28Uh, chairman lee, I'd like to touch on the commission's process for reviewing update requests to nuclear facilities that increase their generation output. Last year, the house passed my bill, the grid power act, which will help expedite certain generation projects through grid operators, interconnection queues. And recently, ferc has approved requests from grid operators to expedite projects through their queues to increase generation and meet the growing demand.
▶ 1:29:56For example, pjm reliable reliability resource initiative includes five nuclear projects, including for upgrades at nuclear facilities to increase capacity by nearly 500mw. Can you discuss the nrc's review process for update requests at existing nuclear facilities, and what's your timeframe for finishing these reviews? >> thank you, congressman, for the question. The nrc has had a power upgrade program for decades.
▶ 1:30:22And in fact, over the years that we've been doing power upgrades, we have approved nearly 9000mw electric of upgraded capacity. That's equivalent to about nine large nuclear power plants. And we look at power updates that are in three different types. We have small updates that we call measurement uncertain uncertainty. Recapture a couple percent. Then we have stretch power updates, which are on the order of 7 to 10% of additional power, and then extended power updates, which are either up to 20% or perhaps slightly more.
▶ 1:30:52So we have a, a lot of experience doing this. We're using efficiencies and informed approaches, and we are aligning our organization to, to be able to process these license applications in very reasonable periods of time. We actually have, you know, specific, um, mandates for timeliness for our licensing activities that were driven in part by the advance act as well as the executive order. And we intend to deliver very timely decisions for upgrade activities that we're anticipating. >> all right. Thank you.
▶ 1:31:21Um, commissioner wright and commissioner weaver, uh, do you have anything that you'd like to add? And do you believe there's any room to safely speed up the review process for stretch or extended power updates? Mr. wright go ahead, sir. >> thank you very much for for the question.
▶ 1:31:41Quite honestly, I think that, uh, staff has been since they've been leaning in in this area in a big way, they've reduced the number of hours that they've, uh, it's taken to do these updates and it's been on a, it's been on a curve that's coming down. And I'm very happy with what I see there. Um, and, and encouraged about what they're doing. >> commissioner ryan weaver, thank you. >> yeah, I agree with what the chairman and commissioner wright have said.
▶ 1:32:08You're using the risk informed techniques, um, has allowed us to bring these times down and maintain safety. >> okay. Thank you. Back to you, chairman ni. The advance act included language directing the nrc to facilitate the licensing of reactors at brownfield sites and increase the efficiency of environmental reviews.
▶ 1:32:28Chairman, can you discuss how the commission is implementing this provision of the advanced act and more broadly, how can placing new reactors at brownfield sites help expedite. Expedite the nrc's nepa review process and get these reactors up and running faster? >> thank you. Congressman. Yes, we have implemented many licensing efficiencies that were driven by the advance act. And we have, um, reflected those also in how we're doing these rulemakings.
▶ 1:32:56Probably the biggest thing that will really help with brownfield sites is our, our reformation of how we do environmental reviews. So we have made significant changes to, uh, making sure that we are doing exactly what the national environmental policy act requires. Nothing more, nothing less. And doing those reviews in a much more efficient way.
▶ 1:33:17And that's going to save significant amount of licensing time for a brownfield location and doing the siting and environmental work that's required, because obviously at a brownfield site, things have already been looked at. So we can build on that and not have to reinvent the wheel. >> thank you. Um, would any others like to comment on that or. Yes, sir. Mr. cromwell.
▶ 1:33:41>> I would just say that um, uh, brownfield sites represent tremendous opportunity, but not all brownfield sites are the same. And with the context of nuclear, uh, you got to look at where you've got, uh, you know, contemporary environmental review that you could leverage and, um, uh, adequate, uh, transmission and, uh, uh, uh, hook up. Uh, so looking at that, if you can, if you can bring those two things together, uh, it becomes very attractive for new nuclear builds. >> thank you very much.
▶ 1:34:11And thank you all again for being here. Mr. chairman, I yield back. >> thank you. The gentleman from new jersey's eighth district is recognized for five minutes for questions, and we have eight minutes in the left in the first vote. >> thank you. Chairman. This is incredibly important hearing as states such as new jersey and tech companies are turning to nuclear energy to address rapidly increasing energy demand. At the same time, we've watched president trump attack our federal agencies and public servants and undermine their ability to carry out their critical missions and service to our country.
▶ 1:34:41As ranking members, pallone and castor previously emphasized, maintaining the independence of the nuclear regulatory commission is essential to keeping our community safe, but the nrc has experienced significant threats to its independence since president trump took office. Commissioners marzano and crowell at a senate hearing last year. You both indicated that you could possibly be fired if you refused to approve a trump administration favored nuclear reactor. Is that correct? >> my understanding remains unchanged.
▶ 1:35:10That could be fired at any time for any reason, by the president. Thank you. >> yes. >> is it normal for a commissioner at a bipartisan, independent federal regulator to fear retaliation from the president of the united states? When a commissioner exercises their independent judgment on a matter of jurisdiction, yes or no? >> yes, sir. >> it is. It is normal. >> sorry. It is. It is not normal. Thank you. >> that's not normal.
▶ 1:35:39>> yeah, I agree, and it's not normal. When the president for the president of the united states to fire a democratic commissioner years before his term expires, for expressing concerns about the president's attacks on the nrc independence. Commissioner crowell, would it be safe to assume that a significant reduction in staff would impact the nrc's ability to adequately assess the safety of nuclear reactors and nuclear materials? >> yes, and it has an impact on our ability to hire and retain future employees. >> correct.
▶ 1:36:08Because this entire attack on our public workforce has been problematic in bringing people back. So the nrc needs to be fully staffed with experts who have the staff who have safety at the forefront to carry out the regular regulator's mission. Is that correct? >> yes.
▶ 1:36:22>> but since president trump took office, over 400 employees have left the nrc, according to a propublica report on dosage at nrc, some of the most significant losses are on teams that handle safety, and nrc has been slow to hire replacement staff, with only 60 new staff hired within the first year of the trump administration. Commissioner crowl, you mentioned earlier that what keeps you up at night is whether the nrc is doing enough to support staff to meet the commission's mission. Is that correct? That's correct. Can you expand on that? >> uh.
▶ 1:36:51>> so you're correct in that we've lost, uh, close to 500 staff over the last 15 months. We've hired around 60 something. If you look on usa jobs, we've only got a dozen or so openings listed. Most of those are for lawyers. That's not the most critical need we have at the agency.
▶ 1:37:08Um, so, you know, if we don't, uh, start hiring more quickly for the types of skill sets we need, um, we're going to have a trouble fulfilling our mission and, uh, ensuring that safety and security that we're responsible for. >> I appreciate it. And speaking of lawyers, seth cohen, a lawyer who previously had no significant experience in nuclear, in nuclear law or policy, said that the goal was to turn the nrc into a, quote, rubber stamp for this administration, for everyone, just yes or no.
▶ 1:37:34Do you believe that trump's attacks on the nrc's independence and staffing cuts undermines the public's confidence in the nrc and the safety of nuclear energy? Just yes or no? We're going to go down the line. >> as far as being independent, we're. >> just yes or no. Trump's actions in the staffing cuts, do you think that undermines public confidence in the nrc and in nuclear energy, just yes or no? We'll go down the line.
▶ 1:38:07>> it's kind of a trick question. I think. >> it's very possible, sir. >> I don't believe there are attacks on the nrc. >> but the commissioner was fired before his term ended. Would you not consider that an attack on the independence of the nrc? >> sir? That was a decision by the president of the united states. >> is it like that amongst many other challenges or wherever that may come from?
▶ 1:38:34Uh, the undermining of the independence of nrc undermines the goals of what we were trying to achieve. >> since I've been on the commission for the last four months, I'm not aware of any attacks and I don't feel well. >> I think it does undermine. That's the problem, because we can all agree that the nrc is. Independence is essential to keeping our community safe. But commissioner, commissioners are publicly testifying. They fear retaliation for going against the president's wishes. Or 400 career staff at the nrc have left since president trump took office that have not been replaced.
▶ 1:39:04Those in charge of overseeing staffing changes at the nrc have been quoted saying that the goal is to make the regulator a rubber stamp, all while nuclear is increasingly viewed as a key piece to meeting our growing energy demand. So we. This is a bipartisan issue that we all should be working on, but I think we have to be cognizant and aware that the president is undermining these efforts with his actions at the nrc as undermining public confidence in you all and in nuclear energy. Thank you. And I yield back. >> thank you. The gentleman yields back in the subcommittee is going to. >> respond very quickly.
▶ 1:39:34>> well, uh, if we can get back because we, uh, we're going to take a brief recess and we're going to reconvene ten minutes after the second vote start after the vote. Second vote starts. >> thank you.
▶ 2:33:18Good afternoon. The subcommittee will come to order and the chair will recognize the gentleman from texas 11th district for five minutes for questions. Thank you, Mr. chairman, and I appreciate the commissioners for the work you do and get a lot of compliments from a lot of people on now. Moving a little bit more at the speed of speed of need and getting things processed.
▶ 2:33:38Um, we have an important project, uh, that you all have approved and issued a license to at abilene christian university for the construction of a small molten salt reactor, and very proud of what abilene christian and the natura public private partnership has done on that. It really marks the first permit for a liquid fueled advanced reactor, and only the second for any advanced reactor issued by by you, by the nrc.
▶ 2:34:08Um, so chairman lee, now that to accuse partner natura has demonstrated this. And as part of the doe pilot program, uh, can you provide a little bit of a clarification and, uh, remarks as to how licensing under that pilot program for the demonstration reactor will translate or carry over into nrc licensing for the build out of a commercial reactor. >> yeah. Thank thank you, congressman.
▶ 2:34:31As I mentioned in the earlier session that we the nrc will use information from the doe pilot projects to support nrc review for commercial deployment. And what we will do is use that information efficiently. We won't, uh, you know, redo the work, but we will validate that it meets nrc requirements. >> I think that's been the frustration of any government bureaucracy is the relitigating of things that have already been discussed and going from one agency to another. Very much appreciated.
▶ 2:34:59Um, and there are industries beyond, um, the nuclear energy where high consequence activities are undertaken every day. Oil and gas, just to name a few. Aerospace defense and the equipment and the components used in these industries are manufactured with safety, um, and with quality at the forefront. Uh, and the nuclear industry, industry supply chain, um, is unique in that the safety related structures and systems and components can generally only be provided by a very small pool of suppliers.
▶ 2:35:30Um, but they've adopted the nqa one quality management standard. Um, and this has the effect of constraining the industry on its supply chain. Um, can you maybe address some of the actions that have been taken to the potential use of alternative quality management systems, such as those used in other critical industries? Uh, for supplying safety related, um, or structure systems and other components to, to the nuclear industry specifically. >> yes, sir.
▶ 2:35:55There are already existing provisions and nrc requirements where through classification of safety systems, they can use commercial grade items provided they, you know, move through a structured process to determine the components.
▶ 2:36:09Um, safety significance, what we're doing further than that in these rules that we're developing under the executive order, we are taking that same concept to be able to apply flexibility so that designers of nuclear systems and applicants can really focus their attention on what is most important to safety in terms of the quality assurance requirements for safety related components. So we already do that in our frameworks already, and we're taking that and expanding it further into the licensing process.
▶ 2:36:38And again, this is going to help you really accelerate the deployment safely, because we just want to make sure that the components that are most important to safety are the ones that have high levels of quality. There are other things that may have functions that are less important to safety. That commercial grade could be sufficient. >> chairman. Um, we've talked about here. There's several pieces of legislation that we passed in the past couple of years, um, with the intent of allowing us to compete to move quicker, to be more efficient. You've just answered several questions on that.
▶ 2:37:07Um, what is it that will get us to that a+ grade? Because I'm worried about the amount of electrons that are being generated and, and the demand that we see increasing. That's a good problem for us to have, but we have to compete worldwide. And what gets us to the a+ level that we're not doing, whether it's us or you or the department of energy.
▶ 2:37:28>> well, anything that gets to shovels in the ground to start in construction safely with, you know, nrc approvals of applications that come before us, we're doing the groundwork now to develop these licensing frameworks that are going to provide a wide variety of options for different types of use cases, deployment models, design maturities to come to the nrc and experience a disciplined and predictable process with a robust safety decision.
▶ 2:37:55So those options are going to be available once we complete our rulemaking activities. The nrc, we're waiting for more applications. You know, we're open for business. We're developing the workforce and the technical competence to be able to do that. And under the executive director's leadership, we're implementing a structured and disciplined management management model to to really execute our safety mission with discipline. >> what percentage of the grid in the future should be serviced by nuclear? What's the percentage of our grid should be serviced in a perfect world by the nuclear component?
▶ 2:38:26>> I can't give a number there. I really think that's for the, you know, the energy providers to really decide. But whatever they decide upon, if it's nuclear, we'll be ready for it. >> yield back. Thank you. >> thank you very much. Gentleman yields back. The chair recognizes the gentleman from california 15th district for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, Mr. chair. Thank you, commissioners, for your testimony.
▶ 2:38:46So california and the san francisco bay area, which I am proud to represent, our home to many startups developing the next generation of vision technology, also known as advanced nuclear reactors. Their designs are fundamentally different from legacy reactors and encompass a variety of technologies that have the potential to be safer.
▶ 2:39:07While our existing regulations were not designed for these technologies, I'm encouraged by your commission's recently introduced part 53 regulations, which could give our innovators more flexibility and predictability. However, widespread deployment can only be achieved if the public trusts the review process. So, chairman me, as the commission begins implementing part 53, how will you ensure transparency and independence in the process? >> thank you. Congressman.
▶ 2:39:35Through the nrc's licensing process, the nrc staff makes many all of its meetings essentially publicly available, unless they're specifically closed. When proprietary information is discussed, I assure you that we will continue that same process to have all our discussions with applicants being done in the public. Of course, members of the public have opportunities to participate in in the contested hearing process as well. So those are that is not changing. >> thank you for that.
▶ 2:40:03And the us has not had a nuclear accident in nearly 50 years, in large part thanks to the commission's work and the industry's uncompromising focus on safety. I fully support our innovators and want to make sure that they are part of this safety culture. So, chairman, again, could you discuss the importance of the institute of nuclear power operations in creating this culture and where innovative startups can play an important role? >> yes.
▶ 2:40:33Thank you for the question. And I can speak from a very unique position, because I worked at the institute of nuclear power operations for a brief period of time before returning to the commission. The high levels of safety and security, safety that exist today and reliability in the operating nuclear power plants have really been made possible by the work of npo. Of course, it's a larger ecosystem when you're talking about nuclear safety and reliability. The nrc has a role, a license holders have a role as well as npo.
▶ 2:40:57But I assure you that impose processes are, you know, focused on safe and reliable operation and achieving a level of excellence in nuclear power operations. And I think that they have provided extraordinary benefit to america, because the operating fleets today are operating at levels of safety and reliability that are the highest they've been in a long time.
▶ 2:41:20And I know the dedicated staff at npo really take their mission to heart in ♪doing their evaluations of the performance of the operating reactor. So I think npo has a role in the future. >> great. Thank you for that. I yield back. >> thank you very much. The gentleman yields back, and the chair now recognizes the gentlelady from tennessee's first district for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, Mr. chairman. And thank you to the witnesses for being here today.
▶ 2:41:47Um, I understand that the commission is updating its regulations with the advisory committee on reactor safeguards, and my understanding is that these changes will direct ac r's advice to focus on the most important novel and safety significant issues. So, chairman lee, can you share why this is so important? And after more than half a century of business as usual, what the urgency is for the nrc and acr s to change their approach? >> yes. Thank you congressman.
▶ 2:42:17The the importance of the acr s reviews and input into the licensing and decision process is very important, especially for new and novel technologies. Now that we have gained so much experience over the decades of existing technologies, their role is not really that important anymore. So having the acr focus on new and novel things that we have not encountered is very important.
▶ 2:42:41Having them operate efficiently is also important because, as you know, the acr s review contributes to the overall time it takes to complete a licensing decision. So I can share with you that the acr s on its own initiative, has taken steps to be more efficient and focus their activities on, um, what is required. And through these rulemakings, we will further solidify that in the nrc's regulations to make sure that acr focus on statutory mandates. Again, nothing more, nothing less.
▶ 2:43:11And then focusing their reviews on matters related to nuclear safety. >> okay. Do you think that a clarification in law, one that says that acr s should focus on new safety, significant designs could help put safety first and get the best work out of the committee. >> I believe anytime laws can be clarified, it would be helpful. >> yeah, that's a novel idea, isn't it? So, um, in my district, we have a project to produce highly enriched uranium for naval reactors.
▶ 2:43:40It's under the nnsa's defense fuels program. Uh, it's critical to our national defense. And this will be the first time since 1992 that our country will begin enriching uranium to hq levels. Uh, from my understanding, they're already in early talks with the nrc even before a formal application has been filed. So, commissioner. Right. With so many new rulemakings from the commission, can you tell me what the nrc pre-application process looks like? And are companies coming to you with questions about the reforms?
▶ 2:44:09So early. >> engagement is what I call that, right? Yeah, it's, it's it's really critical for us to, for people who are looking to do business, uh, to come in early and engage with us so we can understand what's the new and novel things, what is what's unique that maybe do we have the expertise to review it? Or do we need to go find that? Or is there something they haven't looked at that they need to go do and supply to us?
▶ 2:44:37And all that does is help the applicant or potential applicant and the nrc prepare the most robust application possible, which is going to move everything to the left because it can be it can be reviewed quicker. >> yeah, I agree, you know, it's rare to see a federal agency move with such speed. Uh, and we know the window for advanced nuclear energy won't stay open forever. And it'll slam shut if we compromise safety and public trust.
▶ 2:45:04And I understand the commission's made significant changes to its reactor oversight process. So, commissioner wright, can you tell me how the commission conducts its baseline inspections today compared to prior practices? And what drove those changes? >> so the rfp is a living document, and it can change over time. You've had improvements in the plant operation. You heard about info and and what they do.
▶ 2:45:32So they have peer review going on as well. Yeah. So we need to be, um, constantly reviewing and how we can be more efficient and under our new mission statement to lean in and enable the safe use and deployment of nuclear technologies. Uh, and I think through the rfp and the changes that we're making it, we're not cutting safety here, right? Uh, it at all. Uh, in fact, we're still going to have two resident inspectors in every plant in this country.
▶ 2:46:00We're not, nobody's getting rid of that, but it's, it's allowing our inspectors to do and to, to follow the most safety, significant issues in areas in plant operation. >> I've got lots more questions, but I will enter them into the record for you. So thank you, sir, for answering and I yield back. >> well, thank you very much. Gentlelady yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentlelady from virginia's fourth district for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, chairman and ranking member, for holding this hearing.
▶ 2:46:28And thank you to our witnesses for being here today. Uh, any coherent strategy to boost american independence, uh, energy independence, improve energy reliability, and drive down energy costs for the american people involves a robust, well regulated and safe nuclear energy sector. And to that extent, an independent and well resourced nuclear regulatory commission is critical in supporting the renewed growth of this industry and ensuring that we are keeping safety top of mind.
▶ 2:46:58So I'm concerned by recent actions from the trump administration that undermine this independence of the nrc, particularly executive orders. Uh, 14 314 301, which seek to impose structural changes and reforms to the nrc and shift oversight authority of the development and construction of advanced nuclear test reactors from the nrc to the department of energy.
▶ 2:47:22These reforms flout congressional intent that the nrc function, independent of the department of energy, is staffed by technical experts that possesses the critical knowledge to oversee and regulate this important industry, and efforts to reduce the nrc's independence weaken our ability to effectively regulate the industry, undermine public perception that nuclear energy is safe, reliable, and robustly regulated.
▶ 2:47:47And these concerns have been compounded by a proposed 8% reduction in the nrc's budget and a staffing cut of 196 full time positions outlined in the fiscal year 27 budget request released earlier this month. So I want to pick up with the witnesses where ranking member pallone left off and asked about nrc's changes to the reactor oversight process, its inspection program for existing operating nuclear reactors.
▶ 2:48:15Now, I understand that the cumulative changes by the hour or to the r o p will result in a 38% reduction in inspection hours, including a 48% reduction in inspected inspection hours for security and 56% reduction in inspection hours for emergency preparedness.
▶ 2:48:35While there's always room for efficiency, I highly doubt that there's room for a 38% reduction while maintaining our reactor fleet's current safety standards, and I'm concerned that the nrc has gone through a tremendous loss of staff. And just over the last 15 months, and with this rfp, change partners with the agency's reorganization. We will see further shedding of knowledge that the commission cannot afford.
▶ 2:49:02And I understand the commission's plan to convert many of these employees currently working on inspections to work on new reactor licenses. But I am concerned that these are very different skill sets. So commissioner crowell can staff currently working as inspectors transition easily into headquarters roles, focusing on reactor licensing, or are you afraid that the commission will lose further valuable staff expertise as a result of this reorganization? >> I thank you for the question.
▶ 2:49:32It is certainly possible and has happened in the past, but it's not necessarily easy. And to move from one discipline to the other. Uh, and I can say right now, I don't, I haven't seen a lot of appetite from, uh, inspection staff that, um, uh, are impacted by our reorganization, uh, to necessarily want to move into other areas. Um, but to the extent they do, we will, we will make sure that they're successful in that regard. Uh, so, uh, yeah. >> thank you.
▶ 2:50:01And if we see the current wave of interest in nuclear energy actually materialize in the form of operating reactors, then ten years from now, you're going to have fewer staff trying to oversee and inspect many, many more reactors. So, commissioner, how should the commission allocate resources between reactor licensing and reactor oversight? And how should that allocation of resources shift if and when new advanced nuclear reactors come online? >> it certainly needs to be balanced as appropriate.
▶ 2:50:29Um, my concern in the near term is that we're moving too aggressively, too quickly. Uh, in terms of the oversight program, um, the commission ultimately approved, um, uh, scaling back that even further than the staff recommended. Um, that concerns me because we don't have a, the experience yet of working with these, uh, new reactor technologies to know exactly, um, how best to apply the current reactor oversight program or a more tailored oversight program.
▶ 2:50:59And again, uh, the, uh, the existing fleet, their record of success and safety is due to those oversight responsibilities, oversight programs, not in spite of them. >> that's right. Um, and chairman for the record, because I don't think I'll have enough time to answer. We've seen an increased number of cybersecurity threats to energy infrastructure.
▶ 2:51:20So can you submit, for the record, how these changes to the nrc's rfp and security inspection protocols will impact cybersecurity oversight, and how the nrc will work to ensure its cybersecurity inspection protocols remain robust enough to ensure our nation's nuclear power plants follow best practices and are prepared to withstand targeted cyber attacks from line actors. You could submit that for the record, I'd appreciate it. And with that, I yield back. >> thank you very much. Gentlelady yields back.
▶ 2:51:48The chair now recognizes the gentleman from south carolina seventh district for five minutes for questions. >> thank you, Mr. chairman. Commissioners, good to see you today. South carolina knows the value of nuclear energy. Uh, our state, uh, in our state, nuclear power is not theoretical. It's a very much a tremendous part of the fabric of who we are, uh, supports our economy, our grid reliability, reliability, and certainly our energy future.
▶ 2:52:13Uh, south carolina has been a leader for decades, quite frankly, in this space. And I think we'll continue to be in the district I represent. The robinson nuclear plant in darlington county is a clear example of that value. It supports hundreds of jobs, keeps the lights on across the region and serves as a major economic anchor, uh, in the surrounding community. Commissioner. Right. Good to see you, sir.
▶ 2:52:34Um, thanks for being here today and wanted to, uh, inquire about the current status of duke energy's subsequent license renewal application, which would extend the operating life of the robinson plant through 2050. Uh, the facility, of course, is a major economic driver for darlington county and the surrounding communities. Is there any information that you can share at this time about that application? >> well, thank you for, uh, one of your comments.
▶ 2:53:00And, uh, robinson is a very near and dear to me as well. Uh, did my very first resident for a day, um, visit was at robinson and had a great, great time, great experience working with the staff that is with the licensees people as well. Um, so I know they're going through the, the license renewal right now. Um, and several components to that.
▶ 2:53:23And the nrc has over the last year or so, we've really leaned in and the efficiencies that we've gained in these reviews are moving things along very quickly. Um, so I, I can't tell you exactly where the process is, but I can tell you they're ahead of schedule, uh, right now. And so I would look for things happening pretty soon. >> great. Thank you so much for that. On a separate note, commissioner, uh, as directed by the bipartisan advance act, nrc is moving to expedite licensing at existing sites.
▶ 2:53:52Uh, I think this is great news for predictable, efficient regulations. Obviously, I think you all unanimously say that, um, cutting the time, um, for licensing well characterized technologies, it can be helpful to employ existing, uh, at existing sites in south carolina. Can you describe how leveraging information was part of the licensing basis of an existing site can help expedite future licensing processes? >> oh, yeah.
▶ 2:54:20I mean, we just got to get first, if we stay in our lane and we do what we're supposed to do efficiently, and we can reference anything else that's out there that anybody else, that ground has already been plowed and, uh, that that helps move things forward. You've had changes to nepa, right? You've we've committed as a commission and our staff has bought in and made those commitments to shrink the the review timelines without compromising safety. Safety is our north star.
▶ 2:54:47You know, you've heard me say before, it's our strike zone of the home plate. Uh, that is not going to change. So the the thing pay and continue to watch what's happening because we're coming out with these other rulemakings part 53. Soon you'll see maybe part 57 and others that are going to be adding into adding to the speed and to the momentum that we have here. >> thank you for that, chairman. You're on the hot seat now. Uh, not really.
▶ 2:55:13Uh, santee cooper and brookfield are moving toward completing the two ap 1000 units at v.c. Summer, which was a few years ago. A dirty word in south carolina. Um, because the combined licenses were terminated in 2019, the project will require new construction and operating license applications. Given that the site and design, uh, have been extensively reviewed before, uh, and that the same ap 1000 design is now operating at vogel.
▶ 2:55:39Uh, what is the commission doing to ensure that it can leverage leverage prior work and give applicants a predictable, accelerated pathway rather than a cold start? >> thank you, congressman, for the question. We're thinking about that as well. And recently, the nrc staff made publicly available an information paper that describes the different options for situations like, uh, the santee cooper project as well. So we do not expect to again, retread the tire on this.
▶ 2:56:06These units are already operating safely and reliably in georgia at the vogel three and four, there's a certified design that we're updating based on the experience from vogel. Four. So should an application come to nrc to resume that? We believe we can do that efficiently. So we've had some informal discussions about that with the nrc staff and. >> efficient government. What an oxymoron. I love it. >> it's great. It's unbelievable. You know, I left the government for five years and came back to an amazing agency.
▶ 2:56:36The turn that this agency has made to be an enabling regulator after two decades at this nrc is just incredible. I'm so honored to be part of this, uh, defining moment for the nrc, along with my colleagues at the commission. >> thank you. Uh, chairman, commissioner ryan, all commissioners, thank you for being here and your testimony today. With that, Mr. chairman, I yield back. >> gentleman yields back and the chair now recognizes the gentleman from massachusetts fourth district for five minutes for questions.
▶ 2:57:06>> thank you chairman. I appreciate the commissioners. >> being here. Um, and I just want to start really by echoing the comments previously made by congressman peters, which is to say, um, you know, as best as possible at a highly partizan moment in washington, really try to continue to do the work that you've been doing, which is, um, nonpartisan, uh, technically sound and oriented towards how do we have a nuclear renaissance in this
▶ 2:57:38Country, which, uh, to lower energy bills to take bold climate action we desperately need. And I've been monitoring closely the rules, the culture, the orientation of nrc. And I think overall, it's trending in the right direction. So, um, try to continue to do that good work. Um, chairman lee, let me address my first question to you regarding alara.
▶ 2:58:01Uh, the nrc plans to start a rule making process to revise the nrc's radiation protection regulatory framework, specifically looking at reliance on the linear no threshold or lnt model for radiation exposure and the as low as reasonably achievable or alara standard.
▶ 2:58:17I think we need to modernize our radiation protection standards and ensure that the regulations are based on the best available science, and idaho national lab report from last year notes that for members of the general public, the current dose limit of 100 milligram per year also appears to be overly restricted, given the lack of observable effects at much higher levels of natural background radiation experienced by millions of people worldwide.
▶ 2:58:38Chairman, can you explain why updating these regulations is important, both in terms of reducing the cost of constructing and operating nuclear power plants, and in terms of correcting misconceptions about the risks associated with nuclear technology. >> yes. Thank you for the question, congressman. It is important because anytime we can have clarity and predictability in our regulatory frameworks, that makes the regulatory process better. So I can't comment on the details of this modernization of our radiation protection framework.
▶ 2:59:07But what I will say in the context of a lara, a lara, that principle is an open ended expectation that's unbounded. And how you define what's reasonable may be very different than what I define as unreasonable. So what nrc is doing, consistent with its principles of good regulations, is introducing clarity into its regulatory frameworks to be able to manage, you know, doses, whether it's below or above the limit.
▶ 2:59:33>> so in terms of achieving that clarity, the idaho national labs advised the whole body whole body dose limit of 5000mg per year. And to eliminate, uh, all as low as reasonably achievable requirements and subsequent limits below that threshold. Is that the approach that you're planning on taking with the new regulations, or are there other proposals that you're evaluating? >> so we we are taking an approach, again, without being able to share the specific details of the rule.
▶ 2:59:59We're looking to provide clarity and structure into our rules for radiation protection that will be able to provide great, greater flexibility and still keep the public's right protection at, you know, as a priority. >> so it sounds like you're taking other proposals into account besides the idaho national labs proposal? >> yes. It's not a carbon copy of what what idaho has suggested.
▶ 3:00:24But what I will say, congressman, is when the commission completes its deliberations, we will timely make that rule, uh, publicly available for comment. I believe this is going to be an important rule that we received very much stakeholder comment on. >> no, I agree, and as you said, it's critically important that this is a transparent, apolitical and scientific process. I think this getting this rule right really matters. Um, we know that there's going to be a lot of, you know, swirl around this and you really got to nail it down scientifically.
▶ 3:00:53You got to get input, you got to respond to the input, otherwise it could risk public distrust. And we don't want to do that because we've got momentum. We've got more momentum now than we've had in 25 years probably. So on this issue, let's really keep it up. And you know, as this rule proceeds, you know, I think the next step is we want to look at codifying it in statute, right? We want to evaluate how the rule, what it looks like ultimately.
▶ 3:01:15But I think, um, to prevent potential misinterpretations of it down the road between the epa and the nrc in particular, probably we're going to have to put, uh, updated rules into statute form. And so please come to congress and work with us on that as well. I yield back. >> thank you very much. The gentleman yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentleman from texas is 12th district for five minutes for questions.
▶ 3:01:41Chair recognizes the gentleman from colorado's eighth district for five minutes. Excuse me. >> chairman, ranking member thank you so much, uh, for this hearing. Thank you. Of course to our witnesses for taking some time to come. Uh, no question about it. Energy demand is only going up in colorado and across the country.
▶ 3:02:05Uh, electric utilities in my district have told me they're going to need to triple the amount of power over the next ten years that they have on the grid to meet growing demand. And that's after already doubling in the last ten years. Um, but unfortunately, we have policies in colorado from the democrats that run the state of colorado that are going to cost 61 billion additional dollars to push failed energy policies that can't even keep the lights on.
▶ 3:02:30Um, republicans, the administration and congress were focused on making sure that we have safe, affordable, reliable energy. And nuclear is absolutely key to that approach. Uh, we need the base load, dispatchable power in colorado to prevent blackouts in high demand areas like denver international airport, and to make sure that we can stop these public safety power shut offs, ones happening right now in colorado, because we've got an old, weak, dumb grid and generation sources.
▶ 3:02:58Um, but unfortunately, many folks still oppose nuclear energy out of environmental and safety concerns, even though half of all carbon free electricity in the united states comes from nuclear generation. And that sounds pretty, uh, pretty environmentally friendly to me.
▶ 3:03:16And we also know that it's safe, uh, somebody who works at a nuclear power plant, modern nuclear power plant is exposed to 100 times less radiation and on, on an annual basis than I am just flying back and forth from, uh, from colorado to washington, dc. And so, uh, chairman ni, my first question will be to you, um, many folks understanding of nuclear energy is unfortunately limited to previous disasters.
▶ 3:03:39Now, I know we've talked about safety here, um, but would love any additional thoughts that you have on why nuclear generation with today's technology is safer than ever before. What is the administration doing to increase that safety, to promote that safety? And then also the transparency of those safety measures so people can feel secure and confident in modern nuclear technology? >> thank you. Congressman.
▶ 3:04:04The the levels of safety that exist today are they exist because of a much broader ecosystem than I referred to before. It's the the robust regulations and the dedicated staff and inspectors at the nrc and the people that do the licensing work. It's the highly trained and qualified operators that are in the control room operating the facilities. It's the robustly designed facilities themselves. It's the institute of nuclear power operation. It's how this industry does.
▶ 3:04:33Global industry shares operating experience. When things occur at facilities, that information is disseminated very rapidly, so people can learn from that experience. And one strength of this industry is that it's it's a continuous learning organization. And that's one thing that's really been driven into this industry by the institute of nuclear power operations.
▶ 3:04:54So I believe that, you know, this, this, um, when you look at the data of safety performance in terms of the number of unplanned shutdowns, unplanned power changes, number of consequential events, safety, significant inspection findings, they are all trending in a direction that shows very high levels of safety performance. So it's really a, it's a team sport in nuclear safety. And it's not just the federal government, it's the federal government and the industry itself.
▶ 3:05:24>> so something that sticks out in people's minds from 40 or 50 years ago in terms of, uh, things that went wrong at nuclear facilities, that just it is that really something that can even happen today with the combination of technology and cultural advancements in the safety space that we've made. >> we've learned a lot, congressman. And now many of the advanced designs, including the vogel three and four ap 1000, use passive safety features which do not rely on electric power and pumps and motors to start to protect the core if an event were to occur.
▶ 3:05:54So, uh, building it into the design as well as maintaining and building on this high level of performance, is something that, you know, makes nuclear safe as well. And this is why we exist as the nrc to ensure that it continues to be safe. >> excellent. Um, to make sure that we have more nuclear. We know we need permitting reform.
▶ 3:06:13Um, I'm actually one of the colleagues with one of my colleagues, rep peters, across the aisle for a permitting reform framework that includes a provision to end uncontested mandatory nrc hearings for new reactors. Um, and previously, we've heard that this could slash permitting timelines by six months without risking safety or oversight engagement in my final 20s. Can you just speak to that briefly? >> yes. You know, the mandatory hearing process is a vestige of the past.
▶ 3:06:40It was a way to get information out there into the public, and we have many means of communication now and in the transparency of our licensing processes. So the nrc is actively looking at streamlining the mandatory hearing process. And again, there have been proposals before for even legislative fixes to that as well. >> thank you. Yield back. >> thank you very much. The gentleman yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentlelady from washington's eighth district for five minutes for questions.
▶ 3:07:13>> thank you, Mr. chairman. And thank you to our witnesses. The nuclear regulatory commission is considered the world's gold standard nuclear regulator. It gives the american public trust in our government to regulate this energy source safely, and we cannot give up that momentum or trust we've gotten so far to make this, uh, topic bipartisan.
▶ 3:07:36Um, but when this president fires and threatens to fire commissioners in, directs them to rubberstamp projects, it erodes the public's trust for the nrc to work as a dependable and independent regulator. We've seen this in other agencies. The public just needs to have confidence about safety assurances, and those assurances on safety will allow even more bipartisanship here in committee, like the advance act.
▶ 3:08:02So I, uh, I want to thank you all for your independence and work during this time of change. I'd like to transition to the licensing process and some red tape. And we just heard some of this about the mandatory hearing requirement, um, I believe, and you just heard that it is one good place to start, even when no one's contesting the approval of a license for a reactor, nrc still has to hold this unnecessary hearing that takes
▶ 3:08:33Thousands of nrc man hours and months to prepare for. And so to start, I'd love to just go down the line. We already got your opinion, Mr. chairman, but we'll do it with you too. Um, just yes or no. Do you support dropping the requirement for mandatory hearing and licensing process when there is no opposition? >> absolutely. >> yes. Yes yes. >> yes. >> I love that unanimity. Thank you.
▶ 3:09:00Uh, you should know that I was proud to introduce hr 5549, the efficient nuclear licensing hearings act with representatives griffith and vc, which would do just that. My bill cuts red tape by dropping the mandatory hearing requirement when no one objects to the project, and only after environmental and safety reviews where public consultation is required. Uh, I would encourage the chair and ranking member to consider taking up, uh, this needed reform. Uh, that is bipartisan.
▶ 3:09:32Um, now I'd love to just pivot to fuel supply here in the united states. Uh, we talk a lot about national security and, uh, domestic supply chain. Uh, it is feeling increasingly urgent as our geopolitical adversaries dominate the global supply chain while nuclear energy demand is getting more and more support and is growing in the united states and abroad.
▶ 3:09:59And on the enrichment step of the fuel cycle, russia has 45% of the world's uranium enrichment capacity in the us has only one enrichment plant at this point, thanks to bipartisan action here, doe just awarded $2.7 billion for the us to build out. Hey, liu and liu enrichment critical for our supply chains and security and advancing energy independence.
▶ 3:10:26Um, commissioner crowell, what what reforms in congress would help ensure that we can get these domestic commercial enrichment facilities up and running as quickly and safely as possible. And while prioritizing your safety mission. >> thank you for the question.
▶ 3:10:46I'm not sure I'm familiar with all the proposals before congress, but I can assure you that from the nrc's regulatory perspective, um, we're, uh, fuel facilities in the front end of fuel cycle are squarely in our purview in terms of expediting that process. Uh, this country is long overdue in getting its, uh, fuel supply secure. And, um, uh, if we don't do it now, we're never going to, and we desperately need it because it's the key to the renaissance that we hope to see.
▶ 3:11:16>> I agree. And, and, uh, there are ways of building facilities even before the whole permitting process is through. I don't know if any of you want to comment on that idea. It doesn't compromise safety. Go right ahead, commissioner weaver. >> yes. >> thank you. Representative. So the mandatory hearing also applies to enrichment facilities because of section 193 of the atomic energy act. So that's one opportunity.
▶ 3:11:39Um in addition, enrichment facilities are held to a higher account and they're not allowed to start construction at risk where other fuel facilities can. So while we have this impending russian uranium ban coming, we can't we can't even start. So that's another area where we could use some help. >> I agree, I feel that, uh, that seems common sense doesn't compromise safety.
▶ 3:12:05It allows progress, you know, kind of simultaneously with the permitting process. And nothing's going to be permitted if it's not safe. So I'm over time I yield back. Thank you very much. >> gentlelady yields back chair now recognizes himself for five minutes. This is a question for all of you guys. I'll use that term all the witnesses. Nrc has published a number of final and proposed rules to implement the requirements of executive order 14,300. Are you all familiar with that executive order? Good ordering.
▶ 3:12:35The reform of the nuclear regulatory commission, quote unquote. So my question is, and we'll start down the end with you, commissioner. Right. How far is the nrc into that process of overhauling its regulations to achieve that goal? >> well thank you. We've got a number of rulemakings right now that are going through. I want to say we're 31 to 36 ish. If I'm if subject to check. Um, but we're moving forward very quickly on, on this, um, and it very efficiently as well.
▶ 3:13:04So stay tuned. You know, we're dropping them once, you know, they're, they've already dropped like 50 threes already dropped. We, we've got others right behind it. >> thank you commissioner. >> um. >> to build on what my colleague said, um we are on track to finish by the um the timeline set in the executive order of late this year. >> Mr. chairman. >> yes, sir. We are very far down the process of implementing those provisions and the executive order that you referenced.
▶ 3:13:31Uh, there's sections five, alpha through five, juliet j that we consider to be the most significant ones. And we are on track to have those in final form by the end of this year. >> commissioner.
▶ 3:13:45>> I agree, and I want to thank my colleagues for all the work that we've done over the past few months because, uh, and, and of course, nrc staff as well, because they, uh, responded to the executive orders, uh, directives, um, very forthright, uh, and have set up the commission to be well on the way to approving those over the next few months. >> so agree. >> with. >> me on. >> that. >> commissioner weaver. >> yes, sir.
▶ 3:14:13The, um, the advance act actually got the staff started on microreactor rulemaking early. And that's one of the first proposed rules that I looked at when I took my role on the commission. It was, I think it's a a well based rule, and you'll see that soon. And I agree with the other comments that my fellow commissioners have made. >> you must be reading my mail here because you're asking the next question I was going to ask, what's the most meaningful change that y'all are embarking on?
▶ 3:14:41The in response to the executive orders, you've named one. Let's go to you, Mr. marzano, for. What do you think the most meaningful change in y'all's process? >> I mean, there's a lot I will say I do want to kind of highlight our cooperation with the department of energy on the development of test reactors, etc. In 2019, congress passed a nuclear energy innovation capabilities act that truly envisioned this cooperation between, uh, nrc and doe and demonstrating reactors and getting them commercialized.
▶ 3:15:09Uh, and I think what you're seeing now is the fruits of that labor. Um, and so I'm very encouraged that we will be able to effectively manage, uh, conflicts of interest, those kinds of things in our own independence in that process. And so I think that that's been one of the most transformational aspects of our. >> Mr. chairman, to you. >> yes, sir. >> there are. >> again, so many, it's hard to just pick one, but I would just maybe give you a flavor, a few flavors.
▶ 3:15:34The optionality that we're providing for applicants is going to be very, very significant. The other part is also using risk informed approaches in our licensing frameworks to give flexibility for applications to meet performance objectives instead of having prescriptive requirements. So that's a great and then one that's very more practical in terms of accelerating licensing, all the things that we're doing to streamline our environmental reviews. >> again, Mr. crowl.
▶ 3:16:04>> uh. >> to add to the list of importance of my colleagues have said, I would add the efforts we're doing to streamline and make the front end of the fuel cycle more efficient. Um, if we don't succeed there without, uh, without fuel, we're not going to have any more nuclear power. So we need to have that as a in place. >> Mr. right. >> let me give you two things.
▶ 3:16:27One, I the mission statement itself was big, and everything that the executive orders are calling for, the mission statement, it all falls underneath that. Um, and then the second is a full commission. We have a full commission again, you know, when we had when we were down to three, it's hard, but with five it makes it work. >> okay, Mr. chairman, this is for you to start with. Uh, what about this process keeps you up at night?
▶ 3:16:58>> well. >> uh. >> you're wondering, how much time do we have? >> yeah, actually, I, I actually can't wait to get to work the next day to keep going on these things. You know, the things that I guess keep me up at night is really the, the dedicated staff of the nrc, you know, they are working so hard. These are among the most dedicated people I have ever worked with in my entire career. And I want to make sure that they have the, the knowledge, the skills and the resources to be able to get the job done. So I think about the team at the nrc. >> okay, that's my time. Thank you for that.
▶ 3:17:27I'm going to yield back and recognize the gentlelady from texas for at least five minutes. >> well, thank you so much, Mr. chairman. Um, and thank you to our witnesses for being here with us today and for your dedicating your careers to the safety of nuclear energy in our country.
▶ 3:17:48Uh, like many of my colleagues, I have been deeply concerned about the independence of the nrc, uh, especially given the pressure from the white house, the department of energy, and the so-called doge effort. Uh, since president trump took office last year, we've seen a consistent campaign of consolidating power in the white house.
▶ 3:18:10Uh, it's not limited to the nrc, certainly, uh, we have seen an overall effort to weaken independent agencies. And several former nrc officials have publicly warned that this type of intervention at the nrc will pose serious safety risks and slow the deployment of nuclear energy.
▶ 3:18:30So everyone in this room, everyone who's left and everyone who regularly serves on this committee knows that we need urgently to get more generation online, uh, to meet growing demand. We've had hearing after hearing about that, and it's hugely important, but it can't be an excuse to create a regulatory process that is influenced by politics. And this industry in particular, cannot afford to lose public trust.
▶ 3:18:57As you all know, last week during a hearing before this committee, uh, energy secretary wright rebuked, uh, a doe employee, seth cohen, who had proclaimed, I think you all probably know this, but just to make sure, proclaimed that the nrc would do whatever doe told it to do. And I heard you, commissioner, talking about the good collaboration between doe and nrc. So, you know, obviously that is a good sign.
▶ 3:19:28Um, but I am concerned about the statement. I'm very glad that the secretary said he didn't agree with the statement. Certainly. Um, but it is still a concern that he could have that influence and that that kind of attitude could prevent could um, pervade the, the thinking. Um, and so, you know, right now his linkedin profile says that he's simultaneously working a doe nasa and the nrc. So chairman, can you confirm if Mr. cohen is an employee of nrc?
▶ 3:20:01And do you agree with his comments that and this is a quote, the nrc is going to do whatever we tell the nrc to do with the. We being the department of energy. >> thank you, congressman, for the question. Uh, I can confirm that Mr. cohen is a doe employee who is on detail to the nrc. My experience with Mr. cohen is the exact opposite of what was described. I heard the energy secretary say last week that he is passionate about implementing the executive order and seeing the safe deployment of nuclear energy.
▶ 3:20:31That has been my experience with Mr. cohen. I've only spoken with him maybe a couple times by video. He I don't believe he's in the area here, but what I have seen in my interactions with Mr. cohen is that he, um, has given some innovative thinking, some new ideas to the nrc. I am not seeing or hearing any of the things that were said last year. So. >> okay. >> this belief that that's happening at the nrc, that is just not true. >> well, thank you for that, Mr. chairman.
▶ 3:20:59And, and I do hope you all can see why that is a concern. And I hope you share that concern. I see your heads nodding. So I'm going to take it in the affirmative that everyone shares that concern. So, Mr. chairman, with that, I also want to give you an opportunity to clarify a little bit, adding to what you just said about how the nrc is working together with the doe, specifically on the reactor pilot program. Um, can you talk about how the nrc staff that are detailed to the department are helping the department?
▶ 3:21:28>> yes, yes, I can, and I just had a very, uh, one on one engagement with one of our details from the nrc over to the department of energy. And what nrc is doing is observing the doe authorization process and providing technical input and insights into how the design is maturing and how it could transition over to licensing for the nrc. And I'll give you a real example. So this staff member was observing the testing of an important component for a design, the shutdown control rod system.
▶ 3:21:57And he noticed something about the reliability of the system and the tests that they were performing and had some questions. And based on that input, doe performed additional tests to confirm the reliability of the system. And that's how nrc is adding value. This whole thing that the doe is doing to test these reactors, it's what we need to do as a country to test these technologies before they go down the pathway for commercialization.
▶ 3:22:21So from my perspective, congresswoman, we are doing what we need to do as a unified federal government to deploy nuclear technology safely in america. >> okay. Well, thank you, chairman. And I think I have time to get one more thing in here, which is I know earlier this month in rc published a draft rule to govern how the commission would assess reactor designs that had previously gone through authorization by doe and dod.
▶ 3:22:43And so, chairman, can you just confirm that the proposed rule would put the onus on reactor applicants to detail how reviews by doe and dod adhere to the nrc's safety and testing requirements, and that they aren't getting a special fast pass. >> that's correct. Any applicant has to demonstrate that it meets nrc's requirement with information. >> okay. Well, thank you so much. I've gone over my time. Thank you all again for your testimony and for your work. And with that, madam chair, I will yield back.
▶ 3:23:15>> all right. Well, thank you all for being here today. Uh, I now recognize myself for my five minutes of questioning. Uh, we are at a pivotal moment for american energy policy as energy demand continues to grow. Congress and the administration have both taken steps to accelerate the deployment of nuclear technologies through the advance act and also recent executive orders.
▶ 3:23:40But with that momentum comes our central challenge, ensuring that efforts to increase efficiency and speed do not come at the expense of the nuclear regulatory commission's core mission of safety, independence and public trust deployment expands the nrc's ability to effectively coordinate with partners like the department of energy and the department of defense, while still maintaining its independent regulatory authority, will be
▶ 3:24:11Critical. I appreciate you all being here with us today and providing us with your insight and your expertise. I'd like to start with a question for you, commissioner. Right. Uh, following the completion of phased cybersecurity inspections and their integration into the reactor oversight process in 2022, how is the nuclear regulatory commission evaluating whether emerging cyber threats warrant updates or enhancements to its
▶ 3:24:42Current cyber framework? >> cyber is a cyber is a thing, right? Um, and if you if you're not careful, it can turn into a black hole, uh, for cost and things like that.
▶ 3:24:56I do know that we're, uh, we're staying in touch with every, every agency that has anything to say about this, um, and that we are, uh, working closely with our inside people to make sure that we're doing it right, that it's structured correctly, right? That it's right sized as well. Um, because we have to take serious what's, what could happen and what's out there.
▶ 3:25:22Um, I feel very confident right now that where we're at as an agency and where we're at working with our licensees, that we're in a pretty good spot. Um, but we're still working toward making things more efficient. >> I know the commission, uh, developed a cybersecurity roadmap back in 2017. Uh, do you believe it is it is necessary or are you already working on any sort of update to that roadmap? >> yes, I believe subject to check that that is happening.
▶ 3:25:54Yes. There's it's under it's under review. Things are. >> uh, chairman knee then back to you. Uh, do you have anything to add on the questions that I just directed to commissioner wright about, the current cybersecurity posture and the 2017 roadmap? >> yes. The regulatory controls are in place for robust protection against cyber threats. The nrc continuously monitors information on threats, including cyber.
▶ 3:26:21And the nrc has processes to update, uh, what it believes are the current levels of threat, again, including cyber. And we exercise that process and we will adjust our regulatory frameworks accordingly. >> and chairman, the congress directed the commission through the advance act to enable efficient, predictable, and timely licensing while maintaining safety.
▶ 3:26:44Uh, executive order 14 300 builds on that by accelerating timelines, streamlining reviews, and restructuring the agency. How do you see these directives working together in practice? >> they work hand in hand. They're complementary. The timelines that were driven by nemo and further complemented by the executive order. We are already working toward that. We are building review schedules to meet those timelines and in some cases, beating those timelines. This is how much change is happening at the nrc.
▶ 3:27:15We have made so many improvements into how we actually make the decision, focusing on what is most important for safety and for things that don't materially contribute to mission outcomes. We're not doing those things anymore. We're eliminating the unnecessary conservatism and those aspects of the review that aren't relevant to the safety decision. And we're applying risk informed approaches as well. >> do you believe any additional congressional action is necessary to reconcile or clarify these directives?
▶ 3:27:46>> uh, I would like to maybe respond on on the record for that to give that more thought. >> all right. Well, thank you all for being here and for your testimony here today at this time. At this time, I will recognize the gentleman from texas for five minutes of questions. >> thank you, madam chair. Um, today's hearing I think is is very important.
▶ 3:28:11And I think that any any future hearings on this topic are hugely important because I, I really do believe that we are headed towards, uh, a, you know, a calamity if we don't act soon. Um, I think the electrification issue in this country is something that needs to be addressed immediately. Uh, you know, we have the driverless cars, for instance, uh, that are all electric in austin and you see them everywhere in downtown austin.
▶ 3:28:39I live three hours from austin in fort worth, but I was in los angeles. They were everywhere. And the electrification and people moving more and more into these products. And, and with everything else that's happening with the controversy around data centers, we're just going to need more energy, more electrification. And I think the nuclear has to be a part of that mix. We're not going to get around the nuclear peace. Uh, we're the number one producers of renewable energy in this country in texas.
▶ 3:29:05And, and, and even with the large amounts that we produce in the lone star state, it's not going to be enough for everything that we need in a state of 30 plus million people. Uh, and so, uh, we have to have real power that's showing up for the american public each and every day.
▶ 3:29:22Um, and we need to be honest, uh, about another major benefit that nuclear energy helps protect us consumers from price spikes, uh, when crude and natural gas prices started to surge because of, uh, this war that is being fought right now in iran, you started to see everybody's utility bills go up, their gas bills go up. Uh, and grid operators are also going to feel the squeeze.
▶ 3:29:49Nuclear plants, once they get operating, they really do provide a very stable cost over a long term horizons and can and can reduce over reliance on volatile commodity markets and, uh, and places like texas and nationwide. I think that that's going to matter a lot. And so the challenge before us, I believe is clear, uh, can america scale nuclear deployment, uh, while preserving the gold standard of safety? Uh, and I believe that we can do that.
▶ 3:30:18Uh, congress has acted in bipartisan ways before to modernize licensing and help move these technologies forward. Uh, but laws on paper are not enough. Implementation is really what counts. And so that's going to be, uh, the challenge is making sure that we have a nimble and efficient nrc that can really help us. Otherwise, I think that we could be headed towards some sort of paralysis. And that's, that's not going to be good.
▶ 3:30:44Uh, I wanted to ask the question, um, how do we move faster without moving recklessly? Does anyone just have just any thoughts on that? That'd be that would be great. Yes. >> I'll go back to one thing that was kind of glossed over at one point. The staff have recently issued an information paper in anticipation of the ap 1000 design change rule that's coming to the commission.
▶ 3:31:12Um, looking back to the last renaissance, there was a number of licensing actions, various early site permits combined, uh, operating license, um, applications that have been approved but have gone stale at this point. And I think picking up on where the, the agency left off and where we see interest in, uh, reinvigorating these, uh, these projects that were once envisioned.
▶ 3:31:35Um, that's the kind of low hanging fruit I think that we can see right now, um, where there is significant, um, nrc staff resource that has already already been put into evaluating those, those applications. And so I think we start, um, in terms of new construction, uh, looking at what has already been done. Um, and then of course, um, plant restarts is another big area and updates.
▶ 3:31:58So we have a lot of, uh, in the, in the near term, uh, solutions that, that, that the nrc can be a part of in helping address bringing electronics to the grid faster and yeah. >> yeah, let me ask you this and this and anyone can jump in and answer this from a national security standpoint, do you think that it's important that when it comes to being able to deploy nuclear quickly and efficiently and safely, that the us lead in that area, or does it really not matter if
▶ 3:32:29Other countries are doing it more quickly and more efficiently than us? >> uh, sir, if I may, uh, yes, I, I believe it is important for national security. Our energy security is our national security as well. What we do here, we can help our allies around the world. And again, I think it is important for national security. Just to add on your previous question, what can make things go faster? Investing in the people at the nrc, the technical competence, the leaders, our operations with discipline and efficiency and how we do business.
▶ 3:32:57These are the investments we have to make in the agency to be able to do these things that america needs right now. And we are doing those things and investing in our people. >> yeah. Thank you. Thank you, madam chair. >> I now recognize the congresswoman from iowa's first district, miss miller-meeks. Uh, thank you, madam chairman, for. >> holding this important hearing with the nuclear regulatory commission's leadership. Nuclear energy is reliable, baseload, clean power.
▶ 3:33:23And with hindsight, the wave of retirements over the past decade created real vulnerabilities for our grid. Today, with surging demand from data centers reassured manufacturing and electrification, we are paying the price of those decisions. The good news is that the market has responded. Capital is flowing back into nuclear and shuttered. Plants are coming back online. Palisades led the way, pioneering a first of its kind process to reverse decommissioning and restart a shuttered reactor.
▶ 3:33:51Now, iowa's own duane arnold energy center is following suit. Nextera energy has partnered with google with the 25 year agreement to restart the 601 megawatt plant, with operations targeted by 2029. What makes duane arnold's restart particularly compelling is the community buy in.
▶ 3:34:09The linn county planning and zoning commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the rezoning, and the project is projected to generate more than 9 billion in economic benefits to linn county and the state of iowa over the 25 year operating term that is affordable, reliable power with local support. Exactly what energy policy should look like.
▶ 3:34:29I'm also impressed by the work the nrc has done since 2025 to make the restart process smoother, implementing the advanced act and developing the regulatory pathway to restore operating licenses for plants like duane arnold and palisades palisades. The future of american energy dominance depends on nuclear.
▶ 3:34:51Modernizing our licensing process to restart existing plants, build new ones, and champion emerging technologies like small modular reactors is not optional. It is essential. Commissioner weaver, can you walk us through how the nrc developed this new restart licensing framework, what went into building it, and how your team ensured that they could meet project deadlines without cutting corners on safety? >> yes. Thank you for the question. So the framework was put in place before I arrived.
▶ 3:35:22However, um, it is something that that I'm following closely. Um, so the nrc created an inspection procedure about two years ago. And what we do is leaders of the program offices and the regional, the region that has oversight of the particular project get together and assign a team with some senior executives in charge and put together a multidisciplinary team to, to manage the restart.
▶ 3:35:49Uh, in terms of the details, the licensee will need to look at what's the status of the equipment, right? How long have they been decommissioned? What needs to be done from a physical plant perspective, but then also from a to reconstitute the licensing basis, they need to then seek the nrc approvals to, to, to switch from a decommissioning to an operating plan. >> thank you.
▶ 3:36:12Uh, commissioner crowell, the nrc says its revised reactor oversight process will reduce baseline inspection hours by about 38%, while preserving strong independent oversight. How will you ensure those same advanced act, section 507 principles are applied to duane arnold? Restart inspections across the existing fleet. >> those changes to the direct oversight process will apply to duane arnold, just as they apply to other reactors.
▶ 3:36:41>> uh, chairman, the nrc is revising regulations and guidance under executive order 14,300 and has broader ongoing rulemaking rulemakings tied to efficiency and timeliness. Which of those changes will produce the biggest near-term benefit for current light water reactors and restart projects, not just advanced reactors? >> I think the biggest ones are related to the modernization of part 50 and part 52.
▶ 3:37:06There, we are considering major revisions to, again, depart from prescriptive regulation to more performance based and risk informed approaches. >> thank you. And commissioner wright, the 2024 memorandum of cooperation with canada and the uk on advanced reactors and smrs shows how regulatory regulators can work together internationally.
▶ 3:37:31From your perspective, how can these kinds of international partnerships be used not just to share technical reviews, but also to advance american innovation and diplomatic leadership in nuclear technology? >> thank you. Thank you for the question. Well, you know, we're the gold standard, uh, regulator around the world and the partnerships that we have with our international partners can lead to better global standards as well.
▶ 3:37:57And that we have the opportunity, uh, doing that same, uh, with that engagement to promote us technologies that have the nrc seal of approval, right? They've got a design certification with us. That's what people are looking for. Um, and so we can build that 60 to 100 year relationship with, with our international partners. And as you know, we've already shown that this can be done with the bwr 300 review. >> thank you. My time has expired.
▶ 3:38:23I have some questions that I'll submit for the record to, uh, chairman lee and madam chair, I yield back. >> I now recognize the representative from north dakota, miss fedorchuk. Thank you. >> madam chair, and thank you all for being here today and sharing your expertise. Thank you for your commitment to this very vital industry. Um, chairman, I want to start with you and to go a little bit, um, higher level.
▶ 3:38:50I'm really intrigued and, and pleased by the nrc's, uh, refocus on a more enabling mission. Can you just speak briefly about what, what kind of a sea change that is for the agency and what you're pivoting away from and, and what this kind of means in a broader sense to the industry as a whole. >> thank you for the question, congresswoman.
▶ 3:39:17It is a real sea change in this enabling mindset is something that is really fueling the engine of the work that's occurring at the nrc. And I mentioned in my opening remarks that enabling is adjusting our frame, aligning our regulations with actual risks and operational needs. It's not arbitrarily lowering our standards. It's adapting to new technologies. It's not force fitting old technologies into old frameworks. And it's adding regulatory flexibility where safety is maintained.
▶ 3:39:48It's not preserving long standing constraints that no longer provide a safety benefit enabling. It's really a mindset. It's not a shortcut. It's not a compromise. It's just how we fulfill our safety authorities to benefit the american people. >> thank you for that, and thank you for your leadership in this area.
▶ 3:40:08I would argue that we need an enabling mindset in energy across the country on all forms and quite honestly, in all industries in our country, because we're at this critical time where we've got a lot of competition from others who don't necessarily share our values. If we're going to stay ahead in this race and lead the world, we have to move and work and build and grow. And that takes an enabling mindset.
▶ 3:40:35So thank you for showing us the way in your agency. Um, I'd like to talk a little bit about the, uh, waste, uh, side of things. And, uh, so for that first I'll turn to you. Commissioner. Right. Uh, you, uh, you and I share some similar backgrounds, and I appreciated your friendship over the years.
▶ 3:40:57Um, the united states has tens of thousands of metric tons of spent nuclear fuel sitting in temporary storage with no permanent disposal solution in sight. Um, given that the nrc recently reorganized around nuclear materials and waste as a core business line, what specific regulatory actions is the commission taking to advance, uh, consolidated interim storage licensing?
▶ 3:41:27>> well, we've already had, uh, a couple of applications come through that we've acted on. Um, you know, we can approve, uh, consolidated facilities all day long. We can license them, but it's going to be, it's not our decision to, to open them. It's going to be a community decision, a board decision. It could be a, you know, a local decision by a legislature or something.
▶ 3:41:50So, I mean, we, we have the process to review and to, um, uh, to license these facilities, like in texas and, and in new mexico, we did in utah before that. Um, and, and the wasting in general, you and I both agree on this. It's not a, it's, it's not a science issue, right?
▶ 3:42:12>> separately, does nrc have a regulatory framework ready to support spent fuel reprocessing if congress revisits that policy? >> uh, the answer is yes, we can, we can do reprocessing under our current regulations, but we've also got some stuff that's being rolled out into in the rulemakings that will back that up and actually address some of that. >> excellent. Mr. chairman, I only have about a minute left, but can you speak to the reprocessing of spent fuel?
▶ 3:42:40Uh, what what do you need from congress to help facilitate that? Where do you see that going? How can we speed that process up? >> yeah, I'll say very briefly, congresswoman, we are ready. As commissioner wright mentioned, we can do that now within our existing framework, but we are working on a more comprehensive and structured approach that will enable the flexibility for an expeditious pathway to license that technology, should it come before the agency. >> and so how what's holding that up?
▶ 3:43:09Other countries are doing this. France does a lot of this reprocessing. We're where's the hold up in the us. >> so it's it's feasible. Uh, as I understand it, this is really a commercial decision to make the investment to pursue these technologies. I don't I'm not aware of any, uh, policies or legislation that's needed to do it. It's really going to be a business decision. >> it's a cost.
▶ 3:43:32And so if there's more demand for this fuel with more development and building and production of on site than this industry will follow, is that your. >> that's my expectation. >> excellent. All right. Thank you gentlemen. Wish we had more time to talk, but appreciate your insights, your experience and all that you're doing for this industry in the us. I yield back. >> gentlelady yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentlelady from indiana for at least five minutes. >> thank you, Mr. chairman. At least five minutes, I love that.
▶ 3:44:02Good afternoon everyone. I want to thank chairman latta and for permitting me to wave on to this nuclear regulatory commission hearing. Thank you to the members of the commission for appearing before the subcommittee today. Abundant energy is critical for competitiveness and growth in the modern world. The supply and demand of energy dictates household uses, transportation, industrial applications, technology, and yes, even the controversial deployment of data centers. It's essential we get the policy right.
▶ 3:44:28How can we produce the right amount of energy and then deliver it to the consumers that need it? In 2025, indiana residents experienced a one year cost increase of 17.5% in their energy bills. Economic development cannot come at the cost of making energy prohibitively expensive for our constituents. Wind and solar power generation come with some drawbacks.
▶ 3:44:54They produce energy when the sun shines and the wind blows, but sometimes they can fail when customers need it most. Alternatively, nuclear power has the potential to unlock nearly unlimited, clean, reliable energy for our country. We can use it to provide affordable, stable, consistent power for consumer, commercial and national security applications, enabling innovation and growth.
▶ 3:45:16In last year's national defense authorization act, I introduced an amendment to the ndaa that would expand a navy pilot program to construct small modular nuclear reactors on department of war property. This common sense step will help the navy address the enormous power needs the military applications require for testing and training purposes, and it will expedite the permitting landscape for the deployment of these smrs. From these pilots.
▶ 3:45:43The department of war will have adequate stable power for their needs, but private businesses may purchase unused power to jolt additional economic activity. More importantly, the safe, timely deployment of these smrs can provide a streamlined pathway for the nrc to approve commercial advanced reactors reactor designs. To that end, chairman nae, could you provide some details on the proposed rule that would provide a pathway that the nrc is considering?
▶ 3:46:11Nrc is considering for streamlined reviews for commercial advanced reactor designs, if they've previously been approved by d o w or d o e. >> thank you. Congresswoman. Yes, we recently published a draft rule for comment to do exactly what you just described, and it is our intention to be efficient in using the information that comes out of the department of war or the department of energy in one of their projects, because that provides valuable information that would support a license application, the nrc.
▶ 3:46:38What we're not going to do, we're not going to repeat what was already done. We're going to validate that it meets our requirements. And then for those things that are not done in the d, o or d o w authorization process that are required by nrc, we'll focus on those things, but we will validate the information to support an independent decision that the agency makes on the safety case, and we'll look at other things that were not looked at. >> well, I want to say I'm grateful for that. It does sound like an expedited and safe way to approach this.
▶ 3:47:05We were successful in getting that amendment adopted into the ndaa to give further opportunities for the deployment of small modular reactors on naval property. Chairman nhi, could you discuss mandatory uncontested hearings for nuclear generation? Uh, what value do those provide and do they cause delays in the approval timeline of a project? >> yes.
▶ 3:47:29Congressman, uh, the value is limited at this point with what we know about nuclear energy and availability of the, of the contested hearing process available to the public, there's little value in having the mandatory hearing. All it does is add to the schedule. >> and finally, if I could ask you and the other commissioners, chairman, if you could describe any of other any other outdated requirements in the atomic energy act that are beyond the nrc's control as a regulator, and that would fall into to congress to fix.
▶ 3:47:59>> uh, I would echo, uh, one, one comment that my fellow commissioner weaver mentioned related to construction at risk or fuel cycle facilities. I think that's something that needs to be revisited. >> and as we're talking about, spent nuclear fuel and nuclear fuel recycling, uh, there are critical minerals that can be extracted in the process with new technology.
▶ 3:48:18What role could states play in expediting, expediting, um, the, um, use in case in, in the united states for recycling the spent nuclear fuel. >> well, I think, uh, you know, the department of energy recently made available a program, this nuclear life cycle innovation campus.
▶ 3:48:42So I think those are opportunities for states to, you know, see what role they may have in the entirety of the fuel cycle. >> thank you. Well, before I yield back, I just want to thank the chairman, my colleagues and the nrc for the conversation today. Expanding nuclear energy promises the advancement of clean, safe, affordable power. I'm really thrilled with the work that's being done. I look forward to continued engagement on these issues. Thank you. I yield back, Mr. chairman. >> the gentleman yields back.
▶ 3:49:10Seeing no other members to ask questions, I would like to thank the commissioners for being here today. Uh, members may have additional questions for you all. Remember, y'all's a texas word, and I'll remind members that they have ten business days to submit additional questions for the record. And I ask that our witnesses do their best to submit responses within ten days. Upon receipt of the questions, I ask unanimous consent to insert into the record the documents included on the staff hearing documents list. Without objection, so ordered.
▶ 3:49:40Without objection, the subcommittee is adjourned.