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== Overview ==
== Overview ==
[[File:triangle.png|frameless|right|400px]]
[[File:triangle.png|frameless|right|400px]]
The Plant Modernization Toolbox is meant to be a resource to facilitate decision making and execution of the modernization process at nuclear power plants (NPPs).
The Plant Modernization Toolbox (PMTB) Wiki is intended to be a resource to facilitate decision making and execution of the modernization process at nuclear power plants (NPPs). The Toolbox includes a variety of tools and aids to assist NPPs in identifying and evaluating cost savings from technology and process improvements. Utilities can use these tools to assess the costs and benefits of modernization ideas based on their specific circumstances and operating experience.
The Toolbox includes a variety of tools and aids to assist NPPs in identifying and evaluating cost savings from technology and process improvements.
Utilities can use these tools to assess the costs and benefits of modernization ideas for their specific circumstances and operating experience. 
The Toolbox will continue to improve based on industry involvement. 
Contact EPRI with feedback or suggested additions by emailing: '''[mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com nuclearplantmod@epri.com]'''.


[[Media:2023_IN-278-PlantMod-16x9.pdf|Info Graphic Link]]
The Toolbox will continue to improve based on industry involvement. Feedback or suggested additions can be provided by contacting EPRI at '''[mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com nuclearplantmod@epri.com]'''.


The major components of the Toolbox are:
The core components of the Toolbox are:
* The Modernization Process   
* The Modernization Process   
* The Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM) and completed example business cases   
* The Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM) and completed example business cases   
Line 19: Line 15:


== Modernization Process ==
== Modernization Process ==
The Modernization Process provides guidance for developing a strategy for modernization of nuclear power plants and augmenting typical plant processes for large projects to address considerations specific to plant modernization. It describes various factors for developing a nuclear power plant modernization strategy to improve the economic competitiveness of nuclear power plants using modern technology and innovation. The strategy must be tailored to fit the circumstances of the specific site and utility.
The Modernization Process provides guidance for developing a strategy for modernization of nuclear power plants and augmenting typical plant processes for large projects to address considerations specific to plant modernization. It describes various factors for developing a nuclear power plant modernization strategy to improve the economic competitiveness and worker productivity of nuclear power plants using modern technology and innovation. The strategy must be tailored to fit the circumstances of the specific site and utility.


The modernization process described in EPRI report “Nuclear Power Plant Modernization—Strategy Development and Implementation Process” ([https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002029089 3002029089]) is a framework for systematic implementation of modernization improvements at nuclear power plants. Modernization improvements encompass any concept, project, or activity that uses technology to improve how nuclear power plants are operated and/or maintained, with the overarching goal of reducing operations and maintenance (O&M) costs and improving workforce labor efficiency for the fleet, site, or unit. The modernization process is meant to be revisited throughout the life of a site’s modernization program and is comparable to processes that previously have been used by utilities for other large-scale efforts at nuclear power plants (for example, power uprate or license renewal).
The modernization process described in EPRI report [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002029089 Nuclear Power Plant Modernization Strategy Development and Implementation Process Guide] serves as a framework for systematic implementation of modernization improvements at nuclear power plants. Modernization improvements encompass any concept, project, or activity that uses technology to improve how nuclear power plants are operated and/or maintained, with the overarching goal of reducing operations and maintenance (O&M) costs and improving workforce labor efficiency for the fleet, site, or unit level.  


The process guide link provided is to the EPRI download page for the report.
The modernization process is intended to be revisited throughout the life of a site’s modernization program and is comparable to processes previously used by utilities for other large‑scale initiatives at nuclear power plants, such as power uprates or [https://lto.epri.com/LTO long-term operation].


EPRI has launched the Plant Modernization Benchmarking & Assessment (PM B&A) supplemental project. The PM B&A will establish a peer and benchmarking group, providing participants with insights and guidance, industry-wide operational experience, subject matter expertise, peer benchmarking, and targeted research associated with specific modernization needs. Additional details are included in the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/3002024058?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=210056082 PM B&A Supplemental Project Notice]. Please contact your EPRI Technical Advisor or Plant Modernization ([mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com nuclearplantmod@epri.com]) for information.
Additionally, EPRI is now offering the Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application to our members. With EPRI Applications, EPRI will assist our member utilities in applying EPRI research. The Modernization Strategy Development scope includes development of a program charter, definition of key inputs and risks, identification of viable modernization candidates, and initial evaluation of those improvements, all consistent with the guidance in “Development and Implementation Process.” To learn more about the Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application, please contact your EPRI Technical Advisor, or reach out to EPRI Plant Modernization ([mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com nuclearplantmod@epri.com]) directly.


{|class="" style="width:100%"
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| class="centertabletd" | [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002029089 Download Process Guide]
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[[File:Process_Figure.png|frameless|center|900px]]
[[File:Process_Figure.png|frameless|center|900px]]


== Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM) and Example Evaluations ==
<p style="font-size: 20px;">Plant Modernization Benchmarking & Assessment (PM B&A) supplemental Project</p>
The Excel-based Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM) provides a view of the economic feasibility of implementing nuclear plant modernization technologies. The model takes inputs from the user for the cost-drivers impacted by the technologies, to what extent those efficiencies will be harvested, and other business case inputs (e.g., the cost to implement, the time frame over which the business case is to be modeled) to provide output that supports plant modernization decision making. The output provided includes key financial metrics, such as cash flows, net present value (NPV), break-even, and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and operational metrics such as the headcount by functional area before and after the modernization effort is implemented.
EPRI offers the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002024058 Plant Modernization Benchmarking & Assessment (PM B&A) supplemental project] to assist members who have initiated plant modernization efforts and are seeking structured insight and peer comparison. [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002024058 PM B&A] establishes a peer benchmarking group that provides participants with actionable insights, industry operating experience, subject matter expertise, peer benchmarking, and targeted research aligned with specific modernization needs. Additional details are available in the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002024058 PM B&A Supplemental Project Notice]. For more information, please contact your EPRI Technical Advisor or the [mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com Plant Modernization Team].
 
<p style="font-size: 20px;">Plant Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application</p>
In addition, EPRI offers the Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application to support members in applying EPRI research to their plant modernization efforts. Through this application, EPRI works directly with member utilities to translate research into actionable modernization strategies. The scope includes development of a program charter, identification of key inputs and risks, identification of viable modernization candidates, and an initial evaluation of potential improvements, consistent with the guidance in the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002029089 Development and Implementation Process]. To learn more about the Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application, please contact your EPRI Technical Advisor or the [mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com Plant Modernization Team].
 
<p style="font-size: 20px;">Plant Modernization and Digital Transformation Integration</p>
EPRI has developed [https://www.epri.com/research/programs/111344/results/3002035089 Plant Modernization Process and Digital Transformation Framework: Guidance on Integration and Concurrent Implementation] to support integration of Plant Modernization and Digital Transformation strategies and coordinate implementation of modernization and digital initiatives across utilities.


The BCAM link provided is to the EPRI download page for the software, [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 3002019454].
The guidance describes how utilities can align modernization programs, digital infrastructure investments, data strategy, and implementation planning to reduce organizational friction, improve interoperability, and support scalable digital solution deployment.


Multiple example business case evaluations have been completed using the BCAM. The table of completed evaluations is accessed via the link below, and the table provides links to the published Technical Briefs for download.
Utilities may also reference the [https://www.epri.com/research/programs/111344/results/3002023752 Digital Transformation Framework: Utility Strategy and Implementation Guide] for broader DX strategy development and implementation considerations.


The table of completed BCAM Technical Briefs can be searched by topic using the “Filter by Description” feature at the top of the page:
[[File:pmtb0.png||frameless|center|800px]]


In addition, the BCAMs can be sorted by relative Net Present Value (NPVs) by clicking on the “NPV” column header. Finally, the table can be exported to an Excel spreadsheet for users’ internal purposes by using the download button (down arrow at top right of page).
== [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM)] and Example Evaluations ==
The [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 Excel-based Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM)] provides a view of the economic feasibility of implementing nuclear plant modernization technologies. The model takes inputs from the user for the cost-drivers impacted by the technologies, to what extent those efficiencies will be harvested, and other business case inputs (e.g., the cost to implement, the time frame over which the business case is to be modeled) to provide output that supports plant modernization decision making. The output provided includes key financial metrics, such as cash flows, net present value (NPV), break-even, and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and operational metrics such as the headcount by functional area before and after the modernization effort is implemented.  


EPRI has also developed a streamlined version of the BCAM as an online financial evaluation tool. This version of the BCAM allows members to complete higher level evaluations without the additional information required by the BCAM Excel tool. Users can complete multiple use case evaluations and see the financial results immediately. The use cases can be saved online or downloaded as PDF files. The Online BCAM is available to EPRI members and can be accessed by the below link. Please note that an EPRI login is required to access the tool.
Additionally, EPRI has created a self-paced [https://www.epri.com/training/courses/902 BCAM computer-based training (CBT) module] to provide additional instructions, with examples, on how to use the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 BCAM tool].  


{|class="wikitable centertable"
EPRI has also developed a [https://nuclearplantmod-dev.epri.com streamlined version of the BCAM] as an online financial evaluation tool. This version of the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 BCAM] allows members to complete higher level evaluations without the additional information required by the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 BCAM Excel tool]. Users can complete multiple use case evaluations and see the financial results immediately. The use cases can be saved online or downloaded as PDF files. The [https://nuclearplantmod-dev.epri.com/ Online BCAM] is available to EPRI members by using the left sidebar. Please note that an EPRI login is required to access the tool.
|-
|[https://dcx-webwik-p01.epri.com:60100/Online_BCAM/ Online BCAM Tool]
|[https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 Download BCAM Software]
|[https://epri.csod.com/ui/lms-learning-details/app/course/846917f7-00d5-41f7-b1a9-7c70ee0edcb4 BCAM CBT]
|[[Business Case Analysis Models|BCAM List]]
|}


== Modernization Technology Assessments (MTAs) ==
Multiple example business case evaluations have been completed using the [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002019454 BCAM]. This Wiki contains a [[Business Case Analysis Models| table of completed BACAM evaluations]] available through the left hand navigation sidebar. The [[Business Case Analysis Models| completed BCAMs table]] can be searched by topic using the “Filter by text” field and sorted by net present value (NPV) by selecting the appropriate column header. The [[Business Case Analysis Models| table]] may also be exported to an Excel spreadsheet for internal use using the download button at the top right of the page.
A Modernization Technology Assessment is a method to succinctly describe and characterize a potential nuclear plant modernization process improvement or technology so that items for further analysis can be quickly identified by utility and site staff. Technical update “Nuclear Industry Modernization—Modernization Technology Assessments: Specification, Template, and Examples” (
[https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002020578 3002020578]
) provides guidance for preparing MTAs that will be useful in coordinating the efforts of multiple preparers across multiple organizations.


Input for candidate MTAs was obtained from review of past and ongoing EPRI projects, industry award-winning projects (such as the Nuclear Energy Institute’s Top Innovative Practice awards), review of industry best practices, interviews with subject matter experts, and interaction with the industry through the EPRI Plant Modernization Committee.
==[[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| Modernization Technology Assessments (MTAs)]]==


MTAs can be proposed by utilities, vendors, EPRI, national laboratories, or other stakeholders. The MTA specification provides detailed guidance for users to draft MTAs. The link below accesses the specification from epri.com, and anyone interested in developing new MTAs or commenting on existing MTAs can send an email to [mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com NuclearPlantMod@epri.com].
[[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| Modernization Technology Assessments (MTAs)]] provide a concise, structured way to describe and characterize potential nuclear plant modernization technologies or process improvements. [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTAs]] are intended to help utility and site staff quickly identify and screen candidates for further technical, financial, or strategic analysis.


Draft MTAs are reviewed by an EPRI Subject Matter Expert (SME), the Plant Modernization Lead, and, where appropriate, an applicable industry or utility SME. This review process is used to add an MTA to the Toolbox. As stated on the MTA Disclaimer page, EPRI does not endorse, recommend or favor any process, product or service discussed in an MTA. EPRI does not necessarily perform detailed technical or cost savings evaluations for the MTAs but can facilitate discussions with the MTA contributor and SMEs for additional information.
EPRI provides guidance for developing [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTAs]] through the technical update [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002020578 Nuclear Industry Modernization—Modernization Technology Assessments: Specification, Template, and Examples], which establishes a consistent framework to support alignment and comparability across utilities and organizations.


The MTA link below accesses a filter/sortable table of completed MTAs. Each MTA is publicly available and can be accessed via links in the MTA number. SWEEP Score information is provided in EPRI report [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002015802 3002015802].
Input for [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTAs]] is informed by EPRI research, industry best practices, award winning innovation initiatives, subject matter expert engagement, and interaction through the EPRI Plant Modernization Committee. [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTAs]] may be proposed by utilities, vendors, EPRI, national laboratories, or other industry stakeholders.


Similar to the BCAM table, the MTA table can be searched by topic by using the “Filter by Description” at the top of the page:
Draft MTAs are reviewed by EPRI technical experts prior to inclusion in the Plant Modernization Toolbox. [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTAs]] are provided as informational resources only; EPRI does not endorse or recommend specific technologies, products, or services included in an assessment.
[[File:pmtb1.png||frameless|center|800px]]


In addition, the MTAs can be sorted by SWEEP scores and Applicability by clicking the applicable column headers (e.g., Cost, Savings, etc.). Finally, the table can be exported to an Excel spreadsheet for users’ internal purposes by using the download button (down arrow at top right of page).
Utilities or organizations interested in proposing new MTAs or providing feedback on [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| existing assessments]] are encouraged to contact the [mailto:nuclearplantmod@epri.com Plant Modernization Team].


{| class="wikitable centertable"
The filterable and sortable [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTA table]] is accessible through the left hand navigation sidebar. Each [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTA]] is publicly available and can be accessed by selecting its MTA number. Users may search the table using the “Filter by text” field, sort [[Modernization_Technology_Assessment| MTAs]] by SWEEP scores and applicability criteria, and export the table to Excel for internal use.
|-
| [https://www.epri.com/research/programs/111344/results/3002020578 Download MTA Spec]
| [[Modernization Technology Assessment|View MTA List]]
|}


== Technology and Process Improvement Enablers ==
== Technology and Process Improvement Enablers ==
Many modernization efforts rely on enabling technologies or infrastructure.
Many modernization initiatives require enabling technologies or supporting infrastructure to fully realize potential benefits. Several commonly used enablers and related EPRI resources are listed below.


=== '''Wireless''' ===
<p style="font-size: 20px;">Wireless</p>
Installation of a wireless network or distributed antenna system infrastructure by itself, does not lead to any cost saving. However, this infrastructure would allow for widespread installation and usage of wireless technologies such as online monitoring sensors, which could potentially allow fewer maintenance activities, fewer corrective actions, increased equipment reliability, lower dose, and so forth. See EPRI reports [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002009128 3002009128] (Use of LTE Cellular Network and Distributed Antenna Systems to Improve Connectivity and Increase Data Transfer) and [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002011820 3002011820] (Online Monitoring – Engineering Change Package Content for a Distributed Antenna System and Wireless Vibration Sensors)


=== '''Application Integration''' ===
Installation of a wireless network or distributed antenna system infrastructure by itself, does not lead to any cost saving. However, this infrastructure would allow for widespread installation and usage of wireless technologies such as online monitoring sensors, which could potentially allow fewer maintenance activities, fewer corrective actions, increased equipment reliability, lower dose, and so forth. See EPRI reports [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002009128 Use of LTE Cellular Network and Distributed Antenna Systems to Improve Connectivity and Increase Data Transfer] and [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002011820 Online Monitoring – Engineering Change Package Content for a Distributed Antenna System and Wireless Vibration Sensors]
* Efficient software application integration is required to support many process improvements that use enterprise and software applications. EPRI report [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002020923 3002020923], “Application Integration Using Standards-Based Messaging: Implementation of Energy Supply Common Information Model (ES-CIM) Interfaces” contains the result of preliminary research exploring the costs and roles that standards play in reducing costs and project risks. The resulting messaging standards are available through the ES-CIM Github Repository.
* To aid in application integration cases related to Plant Modernization, EPRI is extending the IEC CIM to address interfaces for bulk energy supply assets in the Energy Supply Common Information Model (ES-CIM). EPRI maintains the ES-CIM GitHub repository (https://github.com/epri-dev/ES-CIM/) to aid the general public in developing interfaces with information technology (IT) systems that support bulk energy supply assets. The repository contains WSDL, XSD, JSON, and XML files to aid developers and architects in standardizing interfaces.
* EPRI has developed the Energy Supply – Common Information Model (ES-CIM) Testbed, which allows for the testing of client software with some of the ES-CIM interfaces defined in our GitHub repository. The API was initially developed to support messages relating to PWR Water Chemistry, Radiation, and Spectroscopy. To access the ES-CIM Testbed, please click the button below.


{|class="wikitable centertable"
<p style="font-size: 20px;">Application Integration</p>
|-
 
|[https://www.epri.com/research/programs/111344/results/3002023800 3002023800]
Efficient software application integration is required to support many process improvements that use enterprise and software applications. EPRI report [https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002020923 Application Integration Using Standards-Based Messaging: Implementation of Energy Supply Common Information Model (ES-CIM) Interfaces] contains the result of preliminary research exploring the costs and roles that standards play in reducing costs and project risks. The resulting messaging standards are available through the [https://github.com/epri-dev/ES-CIM ES-CIM Github Repository].
|}
 
To aid in application integration cases related to Plant Modernization, EPRI is extending the IEC CIM to address interfaces for bulk energy supply assets in the Energy Supply Common Information Model (ES-CIM). EPRI maintains the [https://github.com/epri-dev/ES-CIM/ ES-CIM GitHub Repository] to aid the general public in developing interfaces with information technology systems that support bulk energy supply assets. The [https://github.com/epri-dev/ES-CIM repository] contains WSDL, XSD, JSON, and XML files to aid developers and architects in standardizing interfaces.
 
EPRI has developed the [https://www.epri.com/research/programs/111344/results/3002023800 Energy Supply – Common Information Model (ES-CIM) Testbed], which allows for the testing of client software with some of the ES-CIM interfaces defined in our [https://github.com/epri-dev/ES-CIM GitHub repository]. The API was initially developed to support messages relating to PWR Water Chemistry, Radiation, and Spectroscopy.

Latest revision as of 14:30, 10 June 2026

Overview

Triangle.png

The Plant Modernization Toolbox (PMTB) Wiki is intended to be a resource to facilitate decision making and execution of the modernization process at nuclear power plants (NPPs). The Toolbox includes a variety of tools and aids to assist NPPs in identifying and evaluating cost savings from technology and process improvements. Utilities can use these tools to assess the costs and benefits of modernization ideas based on their specific circumstances and operating experience.

The Toolbox will continue to improve based on industry involvement. Feedback or suggested additions can be provided by contacting EPRI at nuclearplantmod@epri.com.

The core components of the Toolbox are:

  • The Modernization Process
  • The Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM) and completed example business cases
  • Modernization Technology Assessments (MTAs), covering a wide variety of candidate modernization improvements available for NPPs
  • Technology and Process Improvements

To find out more about Nuclear Plant Modernization, visit: https://www.epri.com/research/programs/111344

Modernization Process

The Modernization Process provides guidance for developing a strategy for modernization of nuclear power plants and augmenting typical plant processes for large projects to address considerations specific to plant modernization. It describes various factors for developing a nuclear power plant modernization strategy to improve the economic competitiveness and worker productivity of nuclear power plants using modern technology and innovation. The strategy must be tailored to fit the circumstances of the specific site and utility.

The modernization process described in EPRI report Nuclear Power Plant Modernization Strategy Development and Implementation Process Guide serves as a framework for systematic implementation of modernization improvements at nuclear power plants. Modernization improvements encompass any concept, project, or activity that uses technology to improve how nuclear power plants are operated and/or maintained, with the overarching goal of reducing operations and maintenance (O&M) costs and improving workforce labor efficiency for the fleet, site, or unit level.

The modernization process is intended to be revisited throughout the life of a site’s modernization program and is comparable to processes previously used by utilities for other large‑scale initiatives at nuclear power plants, such as power uprates or long-term operation.


Process Figure.png

Plant Modernization Benchmarking & Assessment (PM B&A) supplemental Project

EPRI offers the Plant Modernization Benchmarking & Assessment (PM B&A) supplemental project to assist members who have initiated plant modernization efforts and are seeking structured insight and peer comparison. PM B&A establishes a peer benchmarking group that provides participants with actionable insights, industry operating experience, subject matter expertise, peer benchmarking, and targeted research aligned with specific modernization needs. Additional details are available in the PM B&A Supplemental Project Notice. For more information, please contact your EPRI Technical Advisor or the Plant Modernization Team.

Plant Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application

In addition, EPRI offers the Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application to support members in applying EPRI research to their plant modernization efforts. Through this application, EPRI works directly with member utilities to translate research into actionable modernization strategies. The scope includes development of a program charter, identification of key inputs and risks, identification of viable modernization candidates, and an initial evaluation of potential improvements, consistent with the guidance in the Development and Implementation Process. To learn more about the Modernization Strategy Development EPRI Application, please contact your EPRI Technical Advisor or the Plant Modernization Team.

Plant Modernization and Digital Transformation Integration

EPRI has developed Plant Modernization Process and Digital Transformation Framework: Guidance on Integration and Concurrent Implementation to support integration of Plant Modernization and Digital Transformation strategies and coordinate implementation of modernization and digital initiatives across utilities.

The guidance describes how utilities can align modernization programs, digital infrastructure investments, data strategy, and implementation planning to reduce organizational friction, improve interoperability, and support scalable digital solution deployment.

Utilities may also reference the Digital Transformation Framework: Utility Strategy and Implementation Guide for broader DX strategy development and implementation considerations.


Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM) and Example Evaluations

The Excel-based Business Case Analysis Model (BCAM) provides a view of the economic feasibility of implementing nuclear plant modernization technologies. The model takes inputs from the user for the cost-drivers impacted by the technologies, to what extent those efficiencies will be harvested, and other business case inputs (e.g., the cost to implement, the time frame over which the business case is to be modeled) to provide output that supports plant modernization decision making. The output provided includes key financial metrics, such as cash flows, net present value (NPV), break-even, and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and operational metrics such as the headcount by functional area before and after the modernization effort is implemented.

Additionally, EPRI has created a self-paced BCAM computer-based training (CBT) module to provide additional instructions, with examples, on how to use the BCAM tool.

EPRI has also developed a streamlined version of the BCAM as an online financial evaluation tool. This version of the BCAM allows members to complete higher level evaluations without the additional information required by the BCAM Excel tool. Users can complete multiple use case evaluations and see the financial results immediately. The use cases can be saved online or downloaded as PDF files. The Online BCAM is available to EPRI members by using the left sidebar. Please note that an EPRI login is required to access the tool.

Multiple example business case evaluations have been completed using the BCAM. This Wiki contains a table of completed BACAM evaluations available through the left hand navigation sidebar. The completed BCAMs table can be searched by topic using the “Filter by text” field and sorted by net present value (NPV) by selecting the appropriate column header. The table may also be exported to an Excel spreadsheet for internal use using the download button at the top right of the page.

Modernization Technology Assessments (MTAs)

Modernization Technology Assessments (MTAs) provide a concise, structured way to describe and characterize potential nuclear plant modernization technologies or process improvements. MTAs are intended to help utility and site staff quickly identify and screen candidates for further technical, financial, or strategic analysis.

EPRI provides guidance for developing MTAs through the technical update Nuclear Industry Modernization—Modernization Technology Assessments: Specification, Template, and Examples, which establishes a consistent framework to support alignment and comparability across utilities and organizations.

Input for MTAs is informed by EPRI research, industry best practices, award winning innovation initiatives, subject matter expert engagement, and interaction through the EPRI Plant Modernization Committee. MTAs may be proposed by utilities, vendors, EPRI, national laboratories, or other industry stakeholders.

Draft MTAs are reviewed by EPRI technical experts prior to inclusion in the Plant Modernization Toolbox. MTAs are provided as informational resources only; EPRI does not endorse or recommend specific technologies, products, or services included in an assessment.

Utilities or organizations interested in proposing new MTAs or providing feedback on existing assessments are encouraged to contact the Plant Modernization Team.

The filterable and sortable MTA table is accessible through the left hand navigation sidebar. Each MTA is publicly available and can be accessed by selecting its MTA number. Users may search the table using the “Filter by text” field, sort MTAs by SWEEP scores and applicability criteria, and export the table to Excel for internal use.

Technology and Process Improvement Enablers

Many modernization initiatives require enabling technologies or supporting infrastructure to fully realize potential benefits. Several commonly used enablers and related EPRI resources are listed below.

Wireless

Installation of a wireless network or distributed antenna system infrastructure by itself, does not lead to any cost saving. However, this infrastructure would allow for widespread installation and usage of wireless technologies such as online monitoring sensors, which could potentially allow fewer maintenance activities, fewer corrective actions, increased equipment reliability, lower dose, and so forth. See EPRI reports Use of LTE Cellular Network and Distributed Antenna Systems to Improve Connectivity and Increase Data Transfer and Online Monitoring – Engineering Change Package Content for a Distributed Antenna System and Wireless Vibration Sensors

Application Integration

Efficient software application integration is required to support many process improvements that use enterprise and software applications. EPRI report Application Integration Using Standards-Based Messaging: Implementation of Energy Supply Common Information Model (ES-CIM) Interfaces contains the result of preliminary research exploring the costs and roles that standards play in reducing costs and project risks. The resulting messaging standards are available through the ES-CIM Github Repository.

To aid in application integration cases related to Plant Modernization, EPRI is extending the IEC CIM to address interfaces for bulk energy supply assets in the Energy Supply Common Information Model (ES-CIM). EPRI maintains the ES-CIM GitHub Repository to aid the general public in developing interfaces with information technology systems that support bulk energy supply assets. The repository contains WSDL, XSD, JSON, and XML files to aid developers and architects in standardizing interfaces.

EPRI has developed the Energy Supply – Common Information Model (ES-CIM) Testbed, which allows for the testing of client software with some of the ES-CIM interfaces defined in our GitHub repository. The API was initially developed to support messages relating to PWR Water Chemistry, Radiation, and Spectroscopy.

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