Installed-Asset Exposure in Delayed Nuclear Construction Projects: A Pre-Operational Asset Governance Framework

Nuclear new-build megaprojects frequently experience schedule overruns that prolong the pre-operational phase and leave installed systems exposed prior to commissioning and commercial operation. While existing research has extensively examined the causes of nuclear project delays and their impacts on cost and schedule performance, comparatively limited attention has been devoted to lifecycle risks associated with idle but installed systems. During extended delays, systems require continuous preservation, monitoring, and re-validation, increasing the risk of technological obsolescence, documentation deterioration, and reactivation complexity. This study investigates installed-asset exposure in delayed nuclear construction projects and develops a conceptual governance framework for managing this condition. It adopts a conceptual research approach supported by research question-driven thematic literature synthesis of academic, institutional, regulatory, and technical evidence. Based on this analysis, the study develops a mechanism explaining how extended delays generate secondary lifecycle risks and cost amplification through prolonged exposure of installed systems. Building on this mechanism, the paper introduces the Pre-Operational Asset Governance Framework (Pre-OAGF) as a delay-triggered coordination layer. The framework comprises the Governance Structure, Activation Logic, and Asset Monitoring Framework, which are designed to coordinate preservation across contractual interfaces and support commissioning readiness.