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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 RPD
Tuesday, November 17, 2020|12:00–2:10PM EST
Session Chair:
Robert Hill (ANL)
Session Organizer:
Alternate Chair:
Tim Beville (DOE)
Staff Producer:
Julie Bry (American Nuclear Society)
A new domestic Program to support demonstrations of advanced reactor technologies has been initiated by DOE. Recently, two cost-share projects for near-term reactor demonstrations were announced. At this session, TerraPower and XEnergy will outline demonstration plans for their advanced reactor concepts.
Tim Beville
DOE
Darren Gale
X-energy
Tara Neider
TerraPower
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