42 USC 16273 - Fuel cycle research, development, demonstration, and commercial application

U.S Code last checked for updates: Jan 18, 2025

§ 16273.

Fuel cycle research, development, demonstration, and commercial application

(a)

Used nuclear fuel research, development, demonstration, and commercial application

(1)

In general

The Secretary shall conduct an advanced fuel cycle research, development, demonstration, and commercial application program to improve fuel cycle performance, minimize environmental and public health and safety impacts, and support a variety of options for used nuclear fuel storage, use, and disposal, including advanced nuclear reactor and non-reactor concepts (such as radioisotope power systems), which may include—

(A)

dry cask storage;

(B)

consolidated interim storage;

(C)

deep geological storage and disposal, including mined repository, and other technologies;

(D)

used nuclear fuel transportation;

(E)

integrated waste management systems;

(F)

vitrification;

(G)

fuel recycling and transmutation technologies, including advanced reprocessing technologies such as electrochemical and molten salt technologies, and advanced redox extraction technologies;

(H)

advanced materials to be used in subparagraphs (A) through (G); and

(I)

other areas as determined by the Secretary.

(2)

Requirements

In carrying out the program under this subsection, the Secretary shall—

(A)

ensure all activities and designs incorporate state of the art safeguards technologies and techniques to reduce risk of proliferation;

(B)

consult with the Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration to integrate safeguards and security by design;

(C)

consider the potential benefits and other impacts of those activities for civilian nuclear applications, environmental health and safety, and national security, including consideration of public consent; and

(D)

consider the economic viability of all activities and designs.

(3)

Authorization of appropriations

(b)

Advanced fuels

(1)

In general

The Secretary shall conduct an advanced fuels research, development, demonstration, and commercial application program on next-generation light water reactor and advanced reactor fuels that demonstrate the potential for improved—

(A)

performance;

(B)

accident tolerance;

(C)

proliferation resistance;

(D)

use of resources;

(E)

environmental impact; and

(F)

economics.

(2)

Requirements

(3)

Report

(4)

Authorization of appropriations

(Pub. L. 109–58, title IX, § 953, Aug. 8, 2005, 119 Stat. 886; Pub. L. 115–248, § 2(c), Sept. 28, 2018, 132 Stat. 3155; Pub. L. 116–260, div. Z, title II, § 2003(b), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 2462.)

cite as: 42 USC 16273