The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) said it is launching a significant reorganisation to streamline decision making, consolidate functions, and align with national goals for more efficient licensing and deployment of safe, innovative nuclear technology.
It will reorganise around core business lines of new reactors, operating reactors, and nuclear materials and waste. Licensing and inspection functions will be integrated within each business line to create a single point of accountability and improve coordination between licensing and inspection teams from the onset of projects. In addition, functions carried out under the corporate support business line will be consolidated to improve efficiency.
“We are in one of the most consequential periods in the NRC’s history, and this reorganisation enables us to meet the moment with more efficient and timely decision making,” said Chairman Ho Nieh. “This reorganisation focuses the NRC’s structure around national priorities aimed at accelerating the safe deployment of nuclear technologies. This reorganisation is also aimed at achieving greater consistency in the implementation of agency safety programmes across the NRC regional offices.”
The changes meet requirements in Executive Order (EO) 14300, Ordering Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and EO 14210, Implementing the Department of Government Efficiency Workforce Optimisation Initiative, enhancing the agency’s ability to respond effectively to current and future demands.
“Moving carefully but expeditiously to carry out this reorganization is imperative to provide much-needed stability and certainty for our staff,” said Executive Director for Operations Mike King. “We will maintain a continued focus on the safety and security of operating facilities while creating a structure and regulatory culture that ensures accountability and service for Americans.”
NRC’s near-term priorities will include the appointment of key leaders for the reactor safety programme, and the staff’s development of a new organisational chart and change management plan within the next 60 days. NRC said it will strive to implement the reorganisation plan by the end of September.
