Rolls-Royce Chosen to Build UK’s First Small Modular Nuclear Reactors
The UK government has selected Rolls-Royce to build the country’s first small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), marking a major move to strengthen domestic nuclear energy capabilities.
The decision was made after a two-year selection process, with Rolls-Royce being named the preferred bidder. The government aims to use these SMRs to speed up the decarbonisation of the UK’s power network from the mid-2030s.
In response to the announcement, shares of Rolls-Royce rose to a record high. The project is part of a broader UK push to secure its energy supplies and reduce household and industrial reliance on fossil fuels.
This step reaffirms Britain’s commitment to nuclear power as a key element of its energy strategy, with plans to use both large-scale plants like Sizewell C and smaller reactors developed by Rolls-Royce.
An SMR is a smaller, factory-built nuclear power plant that can be installed more quickly and in more locations than traditional large reactors.
Rolls-Royce was chosen after a two-year selection process for its proposal to build these mini nuclear power stations, helping the UK meet energy and climate goals.
This project is part of the UK's effort to lower carbon emissions and ensure stable, home-grown energy by using both large and small nuclear plants.
Reuters
Proactive Investors
Invezz
CNBC