The UK’s energy landscape is set for a significant shift, with North Wales at the heart of the transformation. The Prime Minister’s confirmation that Wylfa on Anglesey will host the country’s first small modular reactors (SMRs) marks a pivotal moment, not just for the region, but for the nation’s nuclear ambitions. This announcement promises a renaissance for Wylfa, a site with a nuclear heritage dating back to the 1960s, and a boost for the local economy, with thousands of jobs and billions in investment on the horizon.
SMRs, a new generation of nuclear power technology, are smaller, quicker to build, and highly scalable compared to traditional nuclear power stations. Each unit can power hundreds of thousands of homes, with multiple units supplying millions. Their flexibility, enhanced safety, and potential export opportunities make them a cornerstone of the UK’s strategy to achieve energy independence and establish a global competitive edge in advanced nuclear technology.
The project, delivered by publicly owned Great British Energy-Nuclear (GBE-N) with Rolls-Royce SMR providing the design, is expected to support up to 3,000 local jobs at peak construction. Infrastructure improvements linked to the project could inject billions into the local economy, creating opportunities for young people across Anglesey and North Wales.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the historic nature of the decision, stating, “Britain was once a world-leader in nuclear power, but years of neglect and inertia have meant places like Anglesey have been let down and left behind. Today, that changes. We’re using all the tools in our armoury – cutting red tape, changing planning laws, and backing growth – to deliver the country’s first SMR in North Wales.”
First Minister of Wales Eluned Morgan echoed this sentiment, adding, “This is the moment Ynys Môn and the whole of Wales have been waiting for. New nuclear is a step into the future with secure jobs and secure energy guaranteed for the next generation.”
The UK Government is positioning SMRs as a key element in its ‘clean energy superpower’ mission. Once operational, Wylfa’s SMRs could supply electricity for approximately 3 million homes, powering essential services like the NHS and national security infrastructure. Funding for the initiative has been secured through the 2025 Spending Review, with over £2.5bn earmarked for the country’s first SMR programme.
The announcement also underscores the UK’s commitment to global nuclear innovation. Partnerships such as the UK-Czech civil nuclear agreement and collaboration with the US on regulatory alignment are expected to accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies worldwide.
Looking ahead, GBE-N plans to begin activity on the Wylfa site in 2026, with the initial phase involving the construction of three SMR units. The site has the potential to host up to eight units, delivering power to the national grid by the mid-2030s. Beyond Wylfa, GBE-N is tasked with identifying additional sites for potential large-scale nuclear projects, with findings expected by Autumn 2026.
For Anglesey and the wider region, the SMR announcement represents a turning point. It corrects past disappointments in nuclear development, revitalises the local economy, and positions North Wales as a key player in the UK’s energy independence and clean energy ambitions. With cutting-edge technology, international partnerships, and billions in investment, Wylfa is set to become a beacon of the UK’s nuclear future.