Hadron Energy Inc. (NASDAQ:HDRN) moved higher in premarket trading on Thursday after receiving formal acceptance from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for its quality assurance programme, a key step in the future licensing pathway for its microreactor technology.
Shares of the advanced nuclear technology company rose 5.5% following the announcement.
NRC Approves Quality Assurance Framework
The NRC staff issued a final safety evaluation concluding that Revision 3 of Hadron Energy’s Quality Assurance Program Description is acceptable for reference in future licensing applications submitted under 10 CFR Part 52.
The approved programme establishes a comprehensive quality assurance framework covering every stage of the Hadron Micro-Modular Reactor lifecycle, including design, manufacturing, construction, operations and eventual decommissioning.
According to the NRC’s review, the programme meets applicable regulatory requirements and industry quality standards.
First Light-Water Microreactor Company to Achieve Milestone
Hadron Energy said it has become the first light-water microreactor developer to receive NRC acceptance of a Quality Assurance Program Description.
While the decision does not authorize the construction or operation of a reactor, nor constitute approval of the company’s reactor design, it represents an important regulatory achievement that could streamline future licensing efforts.
The acceptance provides a recognised quality framework that can be referenced in subsequent regulatory submissions.
CEO Highlights Importance of Decision
“The NRC staff’s acceptance of our Quality Assurance Program Description is a critical milestone for Hadron Energy and the development of our Micro-Modular Reactor,” said Sam Gibson, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hadron Energy.
Management views the decision as a significant validation of the company’s regulatory and operational approach as it advances development of its reactor platform.
Framework Built on Nuclear Industry Standards
The quality assurance programme is based on Appendix B to 10 CFR Part 50 and incorporates established nuclear industry standards, including ASME NQA-1-2022.
With the programme now accepted, Hadron Energy will be able to reference the approved framework in future applications under 10 CFR Part 52, including Combined License and Manufacturing License submissions.
This approach could reduce duplication during the regulatory review process by allowing previously accepted material to be incorporated into future filings.
Next Steps in the Licensing Process
The company plans to publish the accepted version of its Quality Assurance Program Description within the next three months.
The updated report will include the NRC’s correspondence and final safety evaluation, providing a formal record of the agency’s review and conclusions.
Hadron Energy believes the milestone strengthens its position as it continues advancing its Micro-Modular Reactor technology through the regulatory process and toward future commercial deployment.