Four major firms have been shortlisted to develop small modular reactors (SMRs) in the UK.
- The government’s nuclear authority, Great British Nuclear (GBN), is spearheading this move towards compact nuclear solutions.
- Rolls-Royce SMR, the UK-led contender, claims technological advancement and regulatory progress.
- Westinghouse contends their already-proven AP300 design offers unique market advantages.
- Funding and government support specifics remain unresolved for these projects.
In a significant development, Great British Nuclear (GBN) has shortlisted four contenders to advance the deployment of small modular reactors in the UK. This move is considered pivotal in the national strategy to expedite the establishment of nuclear plants, aiming for swift and efficient implementation compared to traditional, larger nuclear facilities.
Among the shortlisted are Rolls-Royce SMR, a prominent consortium spearheaded by the renowned aerospace entity, which is collaborating with major construction partners, Laing O’Rourke and Bam Nuttall. Rolls-Royce boasts a head start, being 18 months ahead of competition in acquiring regulatory approvals, and is already involved in international projects in Czechia and Sweden. This asserts their strong position in reinforcing the UK’s domestic supply chain.
Holtec Britain, partnering with Balfour Beatty, Hyundai, and Mott MacDonald, also makes the list. Meanwhile, GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy and Westinghouse Electric Company UK have similarly been chosen from submissions preceding a crucial July deadline. The upcoming phase will see these bidders entering negotiation stages with GBN.
Westinghouse emphasizes leveraging their AP300 model, a derivative of the operational AP1000 reactor, which boasts existing UK licensure and established operational credentials. Westinghouse’s chief executive, Patrick Fragman, highlights the model’s proven technology and regulator familiarity, assuring economic and timely market entry.
While the strategic selection of manufacturers progresses, substantial clarity on fiscal provisions and governmental backing for the projects remains lacking. Stakeholders await detailed government direction on the project funding frameworks and the extent of support anticipated from Whitehall.
The shortlisted firms signal a crucial step towards realising small nuclear reactors in the UK, though financial specifics remain pending.
