Ampera Files License For Thorium Microreactors
Florida-based Ampera said on April 2, 2026 that it will file for licensing of its thorium-enabled, TRISO-fueled microreactors under the NRC's new 10 CFR Part 53 framework. Its reactors produce 15–30 MWe, run decades without refueling, and use supercritical CO2 turbines for water-free operation. Ampera submitted a pre-application letter and seeks meetings with NRC offices before the end of May to align on licensing.
Key Points
- 1Files pre-application letter to NRC under new 10 CFR Part 53 to license microreactors
- 2Highlights significance of Part 53's risk- and performance-based framework for expedited advanced reactor approvals
- 3Suggests practitioners can pursue factory-made, TRISO-fueled, 15–30 MWe modular deployments with simplified licensing
Scoring Rationale
Timely company announcement tied to the NRC's February implementation of 10 CFR Part 53 gives practical licensing relevance. Scored moderately for novelty and scope because it is a company-level move within the advanced-reactor segment; credibility is boosted by the regulatory change but relies largely on a company press release.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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