Great British Energy – Nuclear has signed a contract with Rolls-Royce SMR to begin design work for the UK’s first Small Modular Reactors, formally launching the next phase of the programme with plans to deliver at least three units generating 1.4GWe.
The agreement, published on 13 April 2026, confirms the start of site-specific design, regulatory engagement, and planning activity across the UK. It follows the selection of Rolls-Royce SMR as the preferred technology partner in June 2025 and the allocation of £2.6 billion in government funding.
The programme is expected to support around 3,000 jobs at peak construction and thousands more across the wider supply chain. It forms part of the UK’s broader clean energy strategy aimed at strengthening domestic power generation and reducing reliance on external energy markets.
Contract signed to begin SMR programme
The contract initiates collaboration between Great British Energy – Nuclear and Rolls-Royce SMR, setting out the framework for delivery of the UK’s first Small Modular Reactors.
The agreement establishes milestones for both organisations, ensuring coordinated progress across design, regulatory, and development stages. It represents a defined step forward in the UK’s nuclear deployment strategy.
- Contract scope: Covers initial design, regulatory preparation, and planning activity
- Programme start: Moves SMR delivery from selection phase into execution phase
- Partnership: Aligns public and private sector roles under a structured agreement
Design, regulation and planning phase begins
Rolls-Royce SMR will now begin site-specific design work alongside regulatory engagement and planning processes. These steps are required before any future Final Investment Decision can be taken.
The phase will focus on ensuring compliance with UK nuclear standards while preparing the groundwork for construction. It also supports early-stage coordination with planning authorities and infrastructure stakeholders.
Investment and economic impact
The programme is supported by £2.6 billion allocated in the 2025 Spending Review, alongside up to £599 million from the National Wealth Fund. These funds are intended to enable delivery and support the wider SMR programme.
The investment is expected to generate employment and strengthen industrial capability across the UK. It also aims to attract further private capital into the nuclear sector.
- Government funding: £2.6 billion committed to SMR programme delivery
- Wealth Fund support: Up to £599 million for technology development
- Job creation: Around 3,000 roles at peak construction plus supply chain employment
Role in UK energy security strategy
The SMR programme is positioned as part of the UK’s effort to increase energy independence through domestic generation. It supports the transition away from fossil fuel reliance by introducing stable, low-carbon power sources.
The development comes amid broader global energy uncertainty, reinforcing the need for secure and reliable infrastructure. The project contributes to long-term planning for consistent electricity supply.
Energy Output and Capacity Overview
| Indicator | Recent Movement | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Generation capacity | 1.4GWe | Three-unit SMR project designed to deliver stable electricity output |
| Household equivalent | 3 million homes | Estimated supply capacity based on current UK consumption levels |
| Operational lifespan | 60+ years | Long-term infrastructure supporting sustained energy supply |
Industrial and supply chain development
Great British Energy – Nuclear has already awarded over £350 million in contracts across the supply chain during the current year. These contracts involve a range of UK-based companies supporting programme delivery.
The approach is intended to build domestic capability and strengthen the UK’s industrial base. It also supports skills development and long-term sector growth.
International and long-term programme outlook
The SMR programme includes plans for additional units beyond the initial three, alongside international opportunities linked to the technology. Rolls-Royce SMR has identified potential expansion in European markets.
The development supports export potential while reinforcing the UK’s position within the global nuclear sector. It also contributes to long-term planning for future energy infrastructure.
Investment and Programme Milestones
| Indicator | Recent Movement | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Partner selection | June 2025 | Rolls-Royce SMR chosen as preferred technology partner |
| Contract signing | April 2026 | Formal agreement enabling design phase commencement |
| Supply chain contracts | £350 million+ | Contracts awarded to UK companies supporting delivery |
Stakeholder Comments
Ministerial Comments
Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer said;
“This investment, along with vital financing from the National Wealth Fund, will strengthen our energy security, create skilled jobs and help to build a new generation of homegrown nuclear technology that will power our economy for decades to come.”
Ed Miliband, Energy Secretary said;
“At a time of global instability, this is a major milestone for Britain’s energy security. We are backing a British company to deliver our first small modular reactors, creating jobs and providing clean, homegrown power for decades to come.”
Simon Bowen, Chair of Great British Energy – Nuclear said;
“This is an immense moment for the UK nuclear programme, our organisation, and the industry as a whole.”
Chris Cholerton, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce SMR said;
“This contract unlocks the delivery of our first three units and brings certainty to the UK SMR programme.”
The contract between Great British Energy – Nuclear and Rolls-Royce SMR establishes a defined pathway for the UK’s first Small Modular Reactors. With funding in place and design work commencing, the programme moves into its next delivery phase, linking energy generation planning with industrial development across the nuclear sector.
Sources: Great British Energy – Nuclear; HM Treasury; Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News, an independent news organisation delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analysed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
