- The UK government relaxes restrictions on nuclear power plant construction and promotes Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to enhance energy security.
- SMRs, though still in development, offer easier financing and faster construction than large reactors but face cost and regulatory hurdles.
- Rolls-Royce, GE-Hitachi, Holtec, and Westinghouse compete to develop SMRs in the UK, while EDF focuses on large-scale nuclear projects.
The UK government has eased restrictions on nuclear power plants and promoted Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This emerging technology attracts various companies despite ongoing technical and financial concerns.
Previously, only eight designated sites allowed new nuclear projects. Future plans can rise across England and Wales if they meet specific criteria. Prime Minister Keir Starmer drives this effort to boost energy security, highlighting the UK’s heavy reliance on natural gas, which remains vulnerable to global tensions.
The government will reform land use regulations to accelerate nuclear expansion, often seen as a key obstacle to infrastructure development. However, authorities will enforce strict rules, particularly regarding locations near heavily populated areas and military zones.
The legislation now encourages SMR development. These smaller reactors promise easier financing and quicker construction compared to large-scale reactors. However, no company has developed an operational SMR prototype, and the technology faces cost and regulatory hurdles.
Rolls-Royce, GE-Hitachi, Holtec, and Westinghouse lead the race to develop SMRs in the UK. EDF, which initially showed interest, withdrew in mid-2024 but continues to focus on large-scale projects like Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C.
Despite government support, the UK nuclear sector faces significant challenges. The ageing reactor fleet struggles with delays and frequent cost overruns in constructing new reactors. Though success remains uncertain, the government aims to diversify players and adopt new technologies like SMRs to rejuvenate the industry.
Environmental group Greenpeace criticizes SMRs as unproven, pointing to the nuclear sector’s long history of budget excesses. However, with energy security taking centre stage, the government continues to push ahead, even if that means loosening some regulatory controls.
The path to deploying SMRs is long and challenging. As the UK works to reduce dependence on natural gas and ramp up nuclear energy, it remains unclear whether SMRs will succeed in becoming a viable alternative.