CAP1400 meaning

CAP1400 refers in practice to a Chinese-developed Generation III+ pressurised water reactor (PWR) design of about 1,400–1,500 MWe, derived from and scaled up from Westinghouse’s ap1000. It was developed by State Nuclear Power Technology Corporation (SNPTC, now part of SPIC) under technology transfer arrangements with Westinghouse. The term is an industry descriptor, not defined in UK or Irish legislation or case law, and is used in nuclear procurement, licensing strategy, due diligence and project documentation. Key features include passive safety systems broadly similar to the AP1000, but adapted for higher output. For legal teams, references to CAP1400 can affect: licensing and permitting pathways; the need for a UK Generic Design Assessment (GDA) by the Office for Nuclear Regulation and environment agencies if ever proposed for Great Britain; EPC and supply-chain qualification; intellectual property and technology licensing; export control and sanctions compliance; and financing and insurance risk allocation. Usage is broadly consistent across England & Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, though policy and consenting frameworks differ. CAP1400 is not currently licensed or undergoing GDA in the UK. Ireland has no civil nuclear generation programme and separate regulatory arrangements. See also AP1000.