This publication outlines the expectations to be met in the various areas of nuclear power at different stages of implementation. The intended audience are Member States and other users who have an interest in the objective of the peaceful use of nuclear power.

This publication describes what must be considered and achieved to satisfy the IAEA Nuclear Energy Basic Principles (NE-BP) in the area of general nuclear issues, which include the following: energy systems analysis and development of strategies for nuclear energy, economics, infrastructure, management systems, human resources, and knowledge management. The objectives were developed through collaboration with and advice from participants and Member States in multiple technical meetings, committee meetings and conventions.

Describes the rationale and vision for the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The publication identifies the basic principles that nuclear energy systems must satisfy to fulfil their promise of meeting growing global energy demands.

This publication provides Member States with a structured approach to developing an effective human resource management (HRM) strategy, which can be adapted to suit the nature and scope of the national nuclear power programme. It identifies the four components of an integrated HRM strategy particularly relevant for countries developing a nuclear power programme for the first time and examines these issues in the context of each phase of the Milestones Approach. In each phase the publication identifies the required actions related to these issues, and presents observations and lessons learned from Member States.

Developing a nuclear power programme is a major undertaking requiring careful planning and preparation. This publication provides guidance for Member States that with to assess the resources required for the development of the infrastructure needed for a nuclear power programme. Resource estimates are presented in person years, to account for economic differences across countries, in terms of labour costs, which may vary significantly. The data are presented in sufficient detail that they can also be used by countries that have decided to expand their nuclear programme after a long period without building any new nuclear power plants.

Integrated risk management (IRM) is particularly important during the preparation and construction phases of a nuclear power plant (NPP) and anticipates the risks that could arise during the operation and decommissioning phases. This publication is designed to enhance stakeholders' understanding of the fundamental processes, procedures, and methods for IRM. Practical guidelines are provided and best practices shared. The importance of having appropriate risk management policies, especially when considering the various contractual and organizational arrangements in different construction entities, operating organizations and Member States is emphasized. Tables are provided throughout the publication to indicate the causes of risks and their impacts on the applicable NPP or project. Economic evaluation techniques are also introduced. Member States contemplating expanding their existing nuclear power plant fleets can be expected to benefit from this publication, but it will likely be most valuable for Member States newly embarking upon a nuclear power programme.

The decision to develop a nuclear power programme is a significant undertaking by any country. In preparing the necessary nuclear power infrastructure, there are numerous activities that must be completed in a timely manner in line with the objectives of the nuclear power programme. This publication defines three milestones in the development of the infrastructure necessary for introducing nuclear power and provides guidance on the activities that need to be carried out before each milestone. This new revision incorporates the experiences and feedback from several countries which have already completed or progressed significantly in all three phases. It also includes an annex for outlining the specific infrastructure considerations for Small Modular Reactors, which are expected to be deployed in a number of countries in the coming years. This publication is principally for decision-makers, advisers and senior managers in government, utilities and regulatory bodies in Member States interested in introducing nuclear power.