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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Technical Session|Panel|Sponsored by THD
Monday, November 16, 2020|3:40–5:50PM EST
Session Chair:
M. Scott Greenwood (ORNL)
Session Organizer:
Alternate Chair:
Piyush Sabharwall (INL)
Staff Producer:
Erica McGowan (American Nuclear Society)
Economic, environmental, and political pressures are consistent powers of change. Over the past several decades, nuclear has remained the principle force for reliable, cost-effective electricity and clean, carbon-free energy. However, it is no secret that sufficient change in the energy market has accumulated, leading to a tipping point for nuclear power within the United States. As in all other markets, nuclear must adapt to survive and remain a critical cog in America's energy portfolio. Integrated energy systems, expanding the nuclear energy market beyond electricity to thermal heat applications and flexible operation, may be the key to nuclear's existence in the 21st century and beyond. In this session, various panelists will highlight the ongoing research for development and deployment of such systems and provide examples from use cases that are currently being analyzed for further discussion on technical merits and foreseen challenges.
Richard Christensen
Univ. of Idaho
Konor Frick
Idaho National Laboratory
Cliff Ho
Sandia
Roberto Ponciroli
ANL
TJ Morton
INL
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