Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), an independent U.S. government commission, created by the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 and charged with licensing and regulating civilian use of nuclear energy to protect the public and the environment. All licensing and regulatory powers of the former Atomic Energy Commission were transferred to the NRC. The NRC establishes rules for the construction and operation of nuclear reactors; regulates the use, possession, handling, and disposal of nuclear materials; imposes civil penalties for violations; and is authorized to shut down nuclear facilities until violations have been rectified. Four regional offices carry out inspections and investigate nuclear incidents. The NRC also conducts public hearings on nuclear and radiological safety and on environmental and antitrust issues relevant to nuclear energy.

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Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

U.S. independent regulatory agency that oversees the civilian use of nuclear energy. Established in 1974 to replace the Atomic Energy Commission, the NRC licenses the construction and operation of nuclear reactors and other facilities and the ownership and use of nuclear materials. It issues standards, rules, and regulations for the maintenance of licenses, and it regularly inspects nuclear facilities to ensure compliance with public health and safety, environmental quality, national security, and antitrust laws. The NRC also investigates nuclear accidents, conducts public hearings, and reviews power-plant operations. Its commissioners are appointed by the president of the U.S.