The International Network on Innovation to Support Operating Nuclear Power Plants - ISOP - invites the submission of use cases to the third ISOP Innovation Awards . The deadline for entry is 29 May 2026.
The ISOP Innovation Awards recognize deployed innovations that are unique to the nuclear power industry and deliver exceptional impact. Since the awards were launched in 2024, nine impactful inventions have been recognized for strengthening the safety, reliability and sustainability of operating nuclear power plants worldwide. Further recognition has been provided to use cases through the Innovation in Action webinar series .
One of the key outcomes of the 2024 ISOP Innovation Awards was the launch of the Use Case Library , a searchable repository of use cases that facilitates awareness, networking and collaboration on various innovation topics across the global nuclear power industrial sector. The library currently contains 96 unique innovation use cases, including all submissions to the ISOP Awards.
"The ISOP Innovation Awards are unique in their truly global scope. We have received deployed use cases from utilities, suppliers and regulators worldwide," said Ed Bradley, IAEA Team Leader of Nuclear Power Plant Operation and Engineering Support. "Openly sharing these success stories accelerates collective learning and helps the industry better understand what is already possible today."
Recognizing Real-World Innovation
The 2026 Awards will showcase innovations in the nuclear field that are helping to drive the industry forward and supporting a sustainable future for nuclear power. The ISOP Innovation Awards celebrate practical applications of advanced technologies that are already delivering results in operating nuclear power plants.
Submissions may include innovations in areas such as:
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Advanced instrumentation & control (I&C)
- Advanced manufacturing
- Robotics & drones
- Other impactful technological advancements
Submissions will be evaluated by a team of judges comprising IAEA staff and members of the ISOP Network Steering Committee. Each use case will be scored on originality, complexity, repeatability and impact.
Winners of the 2026 ISOP Innovation Awards will be invited to an awards ceremony and will present their uses cases in Vienna, Austria, on the margins of the 70th IAEA General Conference in September 2026.
Applicants must submit their examples using the Use Case template by 29 May 2026. All applicants are required to register with the ISOP Network prior to submitting their application.
