GE Hitachi signs four MoUs focusing on UK SMR plans
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy has signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Aecon, AtkinsRéalis, Jacobs, and Laing O’Rourke as part of its strategy to participate in the UK’s small modular reactor (SMR) selection process. The UK aims to expand its nuclear energy capacity to 24 GW by 2050, utilizing a combination of traditional power plants and SMRs.
Last year, the Great British Nuclear (GBN) body initiated the selection of SMR technologies, narrowing the field to five contenders: GE Hitachi, Holtec, NuScale Power, Rolls-Royce SMR, and Westinghouse. A further shortlist reduction is expected soon, with potential contract awards by the end of the year.
Andy Champ, GEH’s UK country leader, emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “These MoUs underscore our desire to work closely with the UK nuclear supply chain as the SMR competition progresses.” He noted that the BWRX-300 reactor, also planned for deployment in Canada, positions GEH strongly in the market.
The MoUs aim to leverage insights from GEH’s Canadian SMR project at Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington site, where construction is set to begin in 2025. Aecon will provide construction services, while AtkinsRéalis will serve as the project’s architect and engineer.
“Aecon is proud to bring its full spectrum of nuclear construction and project management services to support the future deployment of SMRs in the UK,” said Thomas Clochard, Executive Vice President of Aecon Group.
Jacobs Vice President Dawn James added, “We will assist GEH to build relationships of trust with government and regulators, de-risk the programme, and secure the GDA statements on time,” highlighting Jacobs’ extensive experience in UK nuclear licensing.
The planned timeline aims to narrow the shortlist to around four technologies after the tender response submissions, with contracts expected by year-end to co-fund design and regulatory processes. A final investment decision is anticipated by 2029.
Date: September 13, 2024
