GE Vernova’s nuclear business, GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH), is advancing the deployment of the BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) in the UK with the signing of new Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with engineering companies Boccard and Cavendish Nuclear.
New partnerships for the development of the BWRX-300 SMR
GEH is seeking to consolidate its presence in the UK by establishing closer ties with local suppliers, strengthening its bid in the small modular reactor selection process led by Great British Nuclear (GBN). This move follows previous agreements with firms including Aecon, AtkinsRéalis, Jacobs and Laing O’Rourke.
According to Andy Champ, GE Hitachi UK Country Manager, these collaborations reflect the company’s commitment to developing a robust supply chain for BWRX-300 technology.
We are proud to work alongside these industry-leading companies, demonstrating our dedication to providing the UK with clean, scalable and cost-effective energy solutions.
Champ stated.
BWRX-300 Technology and its Impact on Nuclear Energy
The BWRX-300 reactor is one of the most advanced options in the small modular reactor market. Designed to be more efficient and cost effective than previous models, this reactor uses less steel and concrete, reducing costs and construction times. It is also prepared for diverse applications such as hydrogen generation , district heating and desalination.
Boccard UK, a specialist nuclear manufacturing company, underlined the importance of the agreement with GE Vernova. Douglas McQueen, its managing director, stressed that the company will provide advanced digital manufacturing technology to optimise the production of key reactor components.
Cavendish Nuclear, a subsidiary of Babcock International, will focus on the design and manufacture of the reactor pressure vessel, a key element for operational safety.
International expansion and next steps
GE Hitachi is also developing the first BWRX-300 at its Darlington plant in Canada. In collaboration with Ontario Power Generation (OPG), construction of the first unit is expected to begin later this year , with commercial operations planned for 2029.
In addition, in January 2024, GEH was awarded a £33.6 million grant from the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Future Nuclear Facilitation Fund (FNEF). With this support, the company is advancing the Generic Design Assessment (GDA) of its technology, a key step towards its implementation in the country.
With a consolidated presence in the UK market, GE Vernova continues to position itself as a key player in the energy transition and decarbonisation, betting on nuclear energy as a sustainable and reliable solution for the UK’s energy future.
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Source and photo: GE Vernova
