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A groundbreaking agreement is set to be signed between the UK and US in an effort to expedite the advancement of nuclear power. This move is anticipated to create thousands of job opportunities and bolster Britain’s energy security. The deal, projected to be finalized during US President Donald Trump’s state visit this week, aims to unlock substantial private investments. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed optimism, stating that the two nations are on the path to establishing a “golden age of nuclear” to lead in global innovation.
The UK government has highlighted various benefits of increasing nuclear power generation, including the potential to reduce household energy costs, generate employment, enhance energy security, and combat climate change. The new collaboration, referred to as the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy, seeks to expedite the construction of new nuclear power plants in both countries by simplifying regulatory approvals. This is expected to reduce the licensing period for nuclear projects from up to four years to just two.
The agreement also aims to foster commercial partnerships between British and American companies, with several deals in the pipeline. Notable among the proposed projects is a plan by US nuclear group X-Energy and UK energy company Centrica to construct up to 12 advanced modular nuclear reactors in Hartlepool, potentially powering 1.5 million homes and creating up to 2,500 job opportunities. The broader program could be valued at up to £40bn, with a significant focus on the north east of England. Additionally, multinational companies Last Energy and DP World are collaborating on a micro modular reactor at London Gateway port, supported by £80m in private investment.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband commended the agreement, emphasizing the role of nuclear energy in providing clean, domestically-sourced energy to power homes and drive economic growth in the UK. As described by US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, this partnership heralds a “nuclear renaissance” that will bolster energy security and meet the increasing global demand for power, particularly from AI and data infrastructure. Highlighting the importance of nuclear energy, Sir Keir aims for the UK to reclaim its position as a global leader in the field, with initiatives such as building the Sizewell C nuclear power station and developing small modular reactors in progress
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