DECC launches SMR competition

The UK Government has launched its first phase of the small modular reactor (SMR) competition. It also announced that an SMR Delivery Roadmap will be published later this year.

The Government intends to invest £250 million over the next five years in an ambitious nuclear research and development program. British Chancellor George Osborne made the announcement:

"We're now inviting bids to help develop the next generation of small modular reactors".

The first phase consists of a call for interest. The intention, as stated by the DECC, is “to gauge market interest among technology developers, utilities, potential investors and funders in developing, commercializing and financing SMRs in the UK.” The criteria for the first phase have been established with the intention to create a dialogue with credible organisations.

The Department continued:

“The SMR roadmap will summarize the evidence so far, set out the policy framework and assess the potential, for one or more possible pathways for SMRs to help the UK achieve its energy objectives, while delivering economic benefits. In addition, the Roadmap will detail any work the government will undertake with the Office for Nuclear Regulation to ensure that appropriate provision is made within the process for regulatory approval, including through Generic Design Assessment".

Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of UK trade body the Nuclear Industry Association, said: "Small modular reactors could potentially play a significant complementary role to the UK's existing new build program and it is welcome that the government is looking seriously at the development of SMRs. It is important that the road map the Chancellor has promised by the autumn should maximise the opportunities for UK industry."