GE Hitachi takes key step towards achieving UK SMR ambitions

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.