The U.K. government has begun negotiations with the four vendors vying for small modular reactor contracts in the country.
GE Hitachi, Holtec, Rolls Royce SMR and Westinghouse made the shortlist after clearing assessments from state-owned nuclear energy and fuels company Great British Nuclear. Their design proposals underwent reviews to determine their safety and deliverability.
The SMR program is part of London’s strategy to revive the domestic nuclear industry and position the country as a leader in the development of technologies capable of delivering cheaper energy and improved energy security.
GBN Chair Simon Bowen emphasized that his team has been evaluating design proposals from each company and determined that everyone’s recommendations could significantly influence the country’s future energy landscape.
“The negotiation phase will enable us to select the absolute best technologies on the best terms for the U.K.,” he said. GBN will release its final selection in the spring of 2025.
The British government is investing significantly in nuclear energy as part of its net zero strategy.
In May, it selected Jacobs to review high-temperature gas reactor designs for industrial purposes. The government is also working with industry leaders to create education opportunities and increase the number of science and nuclear fission specialists.