Having passed Step 1 of the Generic Design Assessment – a process designed to ensure that new reactor designs meet the highest standards for safety, security, and environmental protection - the BWRX-300 reactor technology will now progressed to the next step of the assessment process.
Designed to operate for 60 years, the BWRX-300 boiling water reactor has an electrical capacity of 300MWe and requires refuelling every 12 to 24 months. According to GEH, the BWRX-300 uses natural circulation and passive cooling isolation condenser systems ‘to promote simple and safe operating rhythms’. Using a combination of modular and open-top construction techniques, the BWRX-300 can be constructed in 24-36 months while achieving an approximate 90 per cent volume reduction in plant layout.
GEH and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) are currently developing the first BWRX-300 at OPG’s Darlington site near Toronto, Canada. Early site preparation work has been completed, with construction expected to start in 2025 and commercial operation to commence by the end of 2029. A total of four 300 MW units are planned for the Darlington site.
Commenting on the latest developments in its push to deploy the technology in the UK. Andy Champ, GEH UK Country Leader, said: “Progressing to Step 2 of the GDA demonstrates our unwavering desire to deliver a fleet of nuclear reactors in the UK. Our design will be tried and tested through our partnership with OPG to deploy the first civil SMR in the G7. This means we have extensive experience across the full nuclear lifecycle, with a proven track record deploying reactor technology on time and on budget.”
Meanwhile Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said: "This an important milestone for GE-Hitachi and its BWRX-300 Small Modular Reactor and we look forward to their continued swift progress through the regulatory process in what is a pivotal time for SMRs in the UK. Lots of countries and investors are keenly watching the UK's progress in SMR deployment and we should maximise the opportunities this presents.”
GE-Hitachi is one of four SMR vendors currently in negotiations with Great British Nuclear alongside Rolls-Royce SMR, Westinghouse and Holtec to deliver the UK's first SMRs.
The UK has currently nine reactors across five nuclear sites providing around 14 per cent of the country’s electricity from 5.9 GW of capacity. Of the current fleet only Sizewell B will be in operation after March 2030. Hinkley Point C is due to come online by the end of the decade.
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