The global interest in the licensing of new and innovative reactors, particularly high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), has seen a significant rise. While regulatory processes may vary among countries, there is a potential for a collective understanding of the technical aspects associated with these novel reactor designs.
The Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP) organised a workshop focused on HTGR technology on 18-20 March 2024. The workshop attracted around 140 participants from around the world representing nuclear regulatory and technical support organisations, industry, international organisations and associations.
Key topics included validation and verification of codes, fuel safety, research needs, probabilistic safety assessment, defense-in-depth principles applicability, materials selection, and regulatory infrastructure.
Based on the insights gained during the workshop, MDEP will establish a new working group to focus on HTGR-related aspects, aligning with efforts supported by the Generation IV International Forum and NEA to meet the growing demand for advanced nuclear technologies.
