IEEE has signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with testing laboratories Curtiss-Wright Corp., Kinectrics and NTS that are intended to facilitate collaboration on certification needs in the global nuclear power industry.

In September 2014, IEEE met with device manufacturers, test laboratories and power plant representatives with the aim of exploring development of a conformity assessment program for IEEE 323, IEEE Standard for Qualifying Class 1E Equipment for Nuclear Power Generating Stations. This collaboration yielded a white paper, Proposed IEEE Certification for Nuclear Qualified Electrical Equipment.

The white paper notes that in the decades to come, nuclear plant construction suppliers with no industry experience will enter the market. Deficiencies in design, qualification testing or the validity of test results could result in "a large number of nuclear units being temporarily or permanently shut down"—with potentially devastating economic and social costs.