Rolls-Royce Chosen to Build UK’s First Small Modular Nuclear Reactors

Jun 10, 2025

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.

What is a small modular nuclear reactor (SMR)?

An SMR is a smaller, factory-built nuclear power plant that can be installed more quickly and in more locations than traditional large reactors.

Why did the UK choose Rolls-Royce for this project?

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.

How does this project fit into the UK’s energy plans?

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.

Sources
UK selects Rolls-Royce SMR to build small nuclear modular reactors
Reuters
Britain has selected Rolls-Royce SMR to build the country's first small modular nuclear reactors as part of its plan to speed up the decarbonisation of the power network from the mid-2030s.
Rolls-Royce wins UK small nuclear reactor contract, sending shares to record hig...
Proactive Investors
Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC (LSE:RR.) shares rose to a new all-time high as it was selected by the UK government to build the country's first small modular nuclear reactors.
Rolls-Royce wins SMR bid as UK launches nuclear drive with Sizewell C and mini r...
Invezz
Rolls-Royce has been selected as the preferred bidder to build the UK's first fleet of mini nuclear power stations, in a significant step aimed at securing Britain's energy future and reviving domestic nuclear capabilities.
Aerospace giant Rolls-Royce to build Britain's first small modular nuclear react...
CNBC
British aerospace group Rolls-Royce received backing from the U.K. government to build the country's first small modular nuclear reactors. The announcement follows a two-year selection process and reaffirms Britain's embrace of nuclear power.
UK nuclear nod gives Rolls-Royce a mid-term boost
Proactive Investors
Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC (LSE:RR.) shares have had a strong run, and a fresh catalyst has just rolled in.
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