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The UK has named Wylfa in North Wales as the location for its first small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power station, advancing its nuclear expansion plans despite US criticism. Funded with 2.5 billion pounds (USD 3.36 billion), the SMRs are designed to be faster and cheaper than traditional plants, supplying power for 3 million homes and creating 3,000 jobs locally. The government has also opened the door for a future large-scale nuclear plant, with GB Energy-Nuclear seeking a site by autumn 2026, while Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C continue construction.
The UK has selected Wylfa on Anglesey, an island in North Wales, as the site for its first small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power station. The decision comes as the government moves forward with plans to expand the country's nuclear energy capabilities, despite criticism from the United States. Advertisement
Earlier this year, the UK government announced a funding plan of 2.5 billion pounds (USD 3.36 billion) for SMRs, which are designed to be cheaper and faster to build than traditional large-scale nuclear plants. The initiative aims to strengthen energy security and contribute to the country's climate targets.
The choice of Wylfa, previously home to a nuclear power station that shut down in 2015, drew a sharp response from the US ambassador, who had favored a larger-scale project at the site. Despite this, the UK government emphasized that its nuclear strategy could still include a large-scale plant. State-owned GB Energy-Nuclear has been tasked with identifying a suitable site for such a project by autumn 2026.
The government had already selected the Rolls-Royce RR.L design for the SMRs. Once operational, these mini-reactors are expected to provide electricity for around 3 million homes and generate up to 3,000 local jobs during the construction phase. The reactors are planned to be connected to the national grid in the 2030s.
Currently, two large-scale nuclear power plants are under construction in the UK: Hinkley Point C in western England and Sizewell C in eastern England. The SMR project marks a significant step in diversifying the country's nuclear energy portfolio with a faster, more flexible option.
Source Reuters
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