This section identifies, on a generic level, some of the regulatory issues that might be faced by advanced SMRs in some countries. To make the consideration fair, no reference is made to any specific design or country.

9.1.1 General issues

With the increased number of planned and ongoing NPP construction projects worldwide, a delay in licensing of any non-conventional, advanced SMRs may result from the regulatory staff being busy dealing with the applications for NPPs with conventional large-sized water cooled reactors. A governmental programme to support licensing of selected advanced SMRs could help overcome the corresponding delays.