NRC Part 50
NRC 10 CFR Part 50 governs the original two-step licensing process for nuclear power plants: Construction Permit followed by Operating License.
Part 50 requires detailed design submittals before construction, used for all pre-1990s reactors. It allows design changes via amendments but lacks pre-certified standard designs. Largely superseded by Part 52 for new builds.
Why it matters now
Part 50 remains relevant in 2025-2026 for life extensions of 70 GW fleet, supporting baseload for data center growth.