Collaboration to work on development of SMRs for UK

News

Plans to deploy small modular reactors in the UK has moved forward with a Memorandum of Understanding between Sheffield Forgemasters, X-energy and Cavendish Nuclear to collaborate on next generation reactors.

An artist’s impression of an Xe-100 power plant
An artist’s impression of an Xe-100 power plant - X-Energy

The companies will explore opportunities around the deployment of a fleet of Xe-100 Generation IV Advanced Reactors in the UK, based on High-Temperature Gas-cooled Reactor technology.

Sheffield Forgemasters’ experience in the development of nuclear forgings and castings will inform the planned build of up to 40 Xe-100s across the country. 

In a statement, Dominic Ashmore, head of strategy and business development – clean energy at Sheffield Forgemasters, said: “Following the key step forward recently made by Great British Nuclear [GBN] to boost UK nuclear power generation through Small Modular Reactor [SMR] development, GBN is also developing a route to market for other technologies, including advanced nuclear and a consultation will be published this autumn.

“The UK’s civil nuclear development is part of our business strategy and this MOU is the latest in a line of agreements that we have signed with a number of SMR companies looking to deploy in the UK market.

“Our work with X-Energy and Cavendish Nuclear will provide specialist engineering services, support and components including forgings, to the UK Xe-100 deployment programme.

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SMRs