en.Wedoany.com Report on Mar 27th, UK-based advanced nuclear company Newcleo announced that it has formally initiated the pre-application licensing process with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), paving the way for the future licensing of its first lead-cooled fast reactor (LFR) and supporting MOX fuel manufacturing facility deployment in the United States. This marks a critical regulatory preparation stage for the company's nuclear energy project in the U.S.

This pre-licensing interaction aims to familiarize the NRC with its reactor and fuel facility designs and safety plans in advance, and to support the NRC's subsequent review and resource planning. Newcleo stated that this move represents a "significant first step" towards obtaining licenses related to development, operation, and nuclear material management, ensuring that its formal application will fully meet regulatory requirements.

The MOX fuel manufacturing facility is part of Newcleo's strategic partnership with U.S. advanced reactor developer Oklo, with both parties collaborating to develop advanced fuel manufacturing infrastructure in the U.S. The facility plans to manufacture MOX fuel using nuclear materials recovered from spent fuel, providing fuel for Newcleo's lead-cooled fast reactors and enabling a fuel cycle.

In addition to its U.S. project, Newcleo is simultaneously advancing similar plans in France, aiming to submit construction permit applications for its MOX fuel plant and a demonstration reactor in France by the end of 2026.