(AMPERA: Palm Beach Gardens, FL) -- Shortly after the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) finalized its new regulation, 10 CFR Part 53, next-generation nuclear startup company, AMPERA, announced its goal to obtain NRC licensing for its subcritical, thorium-fueled reactors.

On Feb. 23, 2026, AMPERA submitted a formal letter to the NRC indicating its desire to begin the pre-application process for a factory-fabricated, containerized microreactor using advanced fuel forms and passive safety features, intended for modular deployment.

“With the NRC implementing Part 53, innovative, advanced nuclear concepts like ours can focus on licensing new technology rather than explaining how it is different from traditional nuclear systems,” says AMPERA founder and CEO Brian Matthews. “We are harnessing the power of AI to create a safeguards-by-design architecture in the development of one of the most energy-dense solutions that creates low-cost power and is rapidly deployable.”

AMPERA’s factory-built subcritical nuclear system is being developed for ultrasafe, scalable power.

AMPERA’s submission was made to and is awaiting response from directors of the NRC’s Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards, and Division of Fuel Management.

AMPERA pre-application materials are expected to include:
• Initial technical information, including a preliminary description of safety case methodology
• A regulatory engagement plan describing the proposed licensing approach
• Proposed schedule for public meetings (if applicable)
• Proposed engagement topics and venues
• Preliminary schedules

AMPERA requested an initial preapplication meeting before the end of May 2026 to align on engagement structure and scope.

“The NRC’s new regulatory process is an effective way to ensure the same level of safety while acknowledging the different types of technology that are coming to the market,” says AMPERA licensing strategist April Smith. “AMPERA looks forward to working with the NRC as it goes through the licensing process to bring next-generation nuclear reactors to market that can be commercially produced in a factory setting.”