The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) was created as an independent agency by Congress in 1974 to enable the nation to safely use radioactive materials for beneficial civilian purposes while ensuring that people and the environment are protected. The NRC regulates commercial nuclear power plants and other uses of nuclear materials, such as in nuclear medicine, through licensing, inspection and enforcement of its requirements. Its regulatory mission covers three main areas: commercial reactors for generating electric power, as well as research and test reactors; use of nuclear materials in medical, industrial and academic settings; and waste management.

Citation: U.S. NRC (Home). 21 June 2007. United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

Launch US NRC