NRC seeks research foundation for AI regulation in nuclear plants

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has released a final solicitation for a contract to help manage the use of artificial intelligence in nuclear power plants. The agency cited growing use of AI technologies and associated cybersecurity risks as reasons for the procurement. The contract aims to establish a research foundation that could inform future regulation.

The NRC's solicitation seeks contractor support to study AI applications in nuclear facilities, including potential vulnerabilities and safety implications. The work is intended to build a knowledge base that the commission can use to develop guidance or rules. The agency has not yet issued specific AI regulations for the nuclear sector.

Nuclear power plants have increasingly adopted AI for tasks such as predictive maintenance, monitoring, and control system optimization. The NRC's move reflects broader federal efforts to address AI safety across critical infrastructure. Contract responses are due by the deadline specified in the solicitation.