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Federal Oversight of Commercial Nuclear Power

In 2011, U.S. commercial nuclear power plants generated about 20 percent of the nation’s electricity. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licenses these plants and regulates and oversees their safe operation and security.

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NRC faces a number of new and ongoing challenges in fulfilling its mission, including:

  • Addressing concerns about the safety of U.S. nuclear power plants and the adequacy of its processes and regulations in the aftermath of the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi disaster.
  • Licensing new nuclear power plants for the first time in decades and reviewing advanced reactor designs.
  • Deciding whether to renew the operating licenses of existing nuclear power plants while continuing to provide effective oversight of those plants as they age.
  • Regulating nuclear waste issues, including both short-term and potential long-term storage solutions.

Figure 1: U.S. Operating Commercial Nuclear Power Reactors

Figure 1: U.S. Operating Commercial Nuclear Power Reactors

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Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Natural Hazard Assessments Could Be More Risk-Informed
GAO-12-465, Apr 26, 2012

Nuclear Regulation

NRC's Oversight of Nuclear Power Reactors' Decommissioning Funds Could Be Further Strengthened
GAO-12-258, Apr 5, 2012

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Oversight of Underground Piping Systems Commensurate with Risk, but Proactive Measures Could Help Address Future Leaks
GAO-11-563, Jun 3, 2011

Nuclear Safety

NRC's Oversight of Fire Protection at U.S. Commercial Nuclear Reactor Units Could Be Strengthened
GAO-08-747, Jun 30, 2008

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Oversight of Nuclear Power Plant Safety Has Improved, but Refinements Are Needed
GAO-06-1029, Sep 27, 2006
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  • portrait of Frank Rusco
    • Frank Rusco
    • Director, Natural Resources and Environment
    • ruscof@gao.gov
    • 202-512-3841