The UK’s energy landscape is on the cusp of a significant transformation, with Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBN) naming Rolls-Royce SMR as its preferred bidder for developing small modular reactors (SMRs). This decision, pending final governmental approvals, marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s quest for energy independence and clean power generation. The two-year competition, designed to identify the most viable nuclear technology, has culminated in a choice that could reshape the nation’s energy infrastructure and industrial future.
GBN, an allied company of Great British Energy, is poised to drive the expansion of clean energy production across the UK. The partnership with Rolls-Royce SMR is expected to formalise by the end of 2025, with both entities forming a development company to spearhead this initiative. The timeline is ambitious, with GBN planning to allocate a site in 2024 and connect projects to the grid by the mid-2030s. This accelerated pace reflects the urgency and importance of the UK’s energy goals.
Simon Bowen, chairman of GBN, underscored the significance of this development, stating, “This announcement is a defining moment for the UK’s energy and industrial future.” He emphasised that the selection of Rolls-Royce SMR is about more than just energy; it’s about revitalising British industry, creating thousands of skilled jobs, and fostering long-term economic growth. The project is estimated to generate up to 3,000 skilled jobs and provide clean power for three million homes, a substantial contribution to the UK’s energy security and economic stability.
The UK government has committed over £2.5bn ($3.38bn) to the SMR programme, demonstrating its commitment to this ambitious project. This investment is part of a broader strategy to boost energy security and protect household finances. The rollout of SMRs, alongside projects like Sizewell C and Hinkley Point C, will add more nuclear power to the grid than in any previous decade. This surge in nuclear capacity is crucial for meeting the UK’s clean energy targets and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Chris Cholerton, chief executive of Rolls-Royce SMR, celebrated the achievement, noting, “This success is testament to our incredible team, which has developed a world-leading technology.” He highlighted the dual benefits of the project: delivering affordable, clean energy and driving domestic growth through job creation and supply chain opportunities. The partnership with the University of Sheffield to establish a manufacturing and testing facility in South Yorkshire further underscores Rolls-Royce SMR’s commitment to innovation and local economic development.
The selection of Rolls-Royce SMR as the preferred bidder is not just a win for the company but a significant step forward for the UK’s energy sector. It sets the stage for cost reduction, private investment, and the development of one of the earliest SMR fleets in Europe. This news challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in nuclear energy and setting a new benchmark for clean energy production. As the UK moves forward with this ambitious project, it will be crucial to monitor the progress, address any challenges, and ensure that the benefits are realised for both the energy sector and the broader economy. The coming years will be pivotal in shaping the future of nuclear energy in the UK and beyond.