Last Energy UK is set to revolutionise energy production in South Wales with four new micro-reactors.
- The project, named Prosiect Egni Glan Llynfi, will occupy a former coal power site.
- These reactors promise a £300M investment, benefitting the local economy significantly.
- Projected completion of the first reactor is 2027, pending necessary approvals.
- Local engagement and supplier identification are key upcoming steps for Last Energy.
Last Energy UK is embarking on a groundbreaking mission in South Wales, aiming to transform the region’s energy landscape through the construction of four 20MW micro-reactors. The venture, known as Prosiect Egni Glan Llynfi, signifies a pivotal shift from coal to nuclear energy as it reclaims the site of the defunct Llynfi Power Station. With an eye on sustainability and economic revitalisation, Last Energy has secured control of the site and initiated critical preliminary processes, such as site surveys and planning applications.
The strategic deployment of these pressurised water reactors is intended to provide continuous, reliable power to mid-size manufacturers in the area, ushering in a new phase of industrial decarbonisation. Last Energy’s project is poised to supply essential 24/7 baseload power without reliance on taxpayer funding, marking a substantial financial commitment of £300M to the region. Of this investment, £30M is earmarked to bolster the local economy directly, excluding anticipated business rates, with an expectation of generating at least 100 full-time jobs locally.
Key to the project’s advancement is the timely completion of licensing and planning processes, positioning the first reactor’s operational target date by 2027. Engaging with the community and identifying local suppliers are essential steps that Last Energy is prioritising, as seen with upcoming public events and procurement discussions set for November.
In designing these micro-reactors, Last Energy emphasises innovation and efficiency, with a focus on modular assembly and reduced land usage. Their PWR-20 reactors are designed for swift manufacture, transportation, and assembly within 24 months, leveraging existing supply chains and technologies used in hundreds of reactors globally. This approach underscores Last Energy’s commitment to a quicker, more efficient deployment model that circumvents the protracted timelines traditionally associated with grid connections in the UK.
Leadership from both Last Energy and the Nuclear Industry Association laud this initiative as a crucial step towards energy independence and decarbonisation. The project not only aims to revitalise a post-industrial site but also aligns with governmental aspirations for sustainable power solutions. The narrative is bolstered by the company’s intent to operate independently of public funding, differentiating it from other projects under the auspices of Great British Nuclear.
The collaboration between Last Energy and Nato also signals an extended frontier for these technologies, with exploration into military applications further broadening the scope of micro-nuclear benefits. Although concerns over utilisation for weapons-grade material have been addressed as legal and moral barriers make such applications improbable, the strategic focus remains on energy innovation and security.
Last Energy’s initiative marks a transformative step in nuclear energy development, promising economic and environmental advancements for South Wales.
