IAEA Upgrades Global Nuclear Power Reactor Database

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has launched an updated version of its Power Reactor Information System (PRIS) and unveiled a new public webpage. The new platform features an optimized interactive data browser, enabling users to access information on nuclear power reactors worldwide more quickly and intuitively.

Since its establishment in 1969, PRIS has served as the IAEA's primary database for nuclear power reactor information, covering reactor status, design characteristics, operational experience, and global nuclear power development trends. The system provides nuclear power data services to member states, policymakers, regulators, utilities, researchers, and the public. Its flagship publication, Nuclear Power Reactors in the World (RDS-2), is one of the IAEA's most frequently used publications, with over 20,000 downloads annually.

This update completes PRIS's multi-year digital transformation, covering data collection, validation, analysis, visualization, and public dissemination. The new website features improved navigation and search functions, and enhances the data query experience through a modernized interface, meeting external demand for timely and transparent nuclear power data.

The new PRIS data browser is the core feature of this upgrade. Users can query decades of reactor information and operational data through dynamic visualization tools and customizable reports, analyze nuclear power development trends, compare the operational performance of different reactor technologies, and access relevant statistical information. The platform interface is designed for both technical experts and general users, lowering the barrier to data retrieval and comprehension.

The modernization of PRIS began in 2018, initially focusing on upgrading the Web-based Data Entry and Validation System (WEDAS) used by member states to submit and validate nuclear power data. The project subsequently introduced the Data Acquisition and Validation Application (DAVA), enhancing cybersecurity, improving system availability, and optimizing data management processes.

In 2020, PRIS DAVA was put into operation, modernizing data collection and validation processes for reactors under regulatory control, in operation, under construction, undergoing decommissioning, and non-electrical applications. The improvements incorporated feedback from member states provided through technical meetings, consultancy meetings, and pilot testing.

The IAEA stated that the newly launched website is the first of two version updates under the PRIS modernization plan. The second version is scheduled for release in early 2027 and will add more analytical features and complete the modernization of PRIS statistical applications.

The upgraded PRIS platform will continue to track reactor technology developments and adapt to expanded reporting requirements for advanced reactors such as small modular reactors, providing support for member states and the international nuclear community in monitoring nuclear power development, conducting data analysis, and sharing industry knowledge.