Amentum, a U.S.-based engineering firm, has been chosen by Czech utility ?EZ to assist in developing two small modular reactors (SMRs) as part of its new nuclear program. This follows the Czech Republic’s decision in September of the previous year to select Rolls-Royce SMR from the UK after evaluating seven potential technology providers. The first SMR is planned for a site near the Temelin nuclear power plant in the 2030s, with ?EZ also exploring additional locations like Tušimice and Dětmarovice. Surveys are underway to assess the suitability of these sites for nuclear use.

The Tušimice coal-fired plant site, which could house SMRs

?EZ has tasked Amentum with preparing environmental impact assessment (EIA) reports for proposed Rolls-Royce SMRs at Temelin and Tušimice, a coal-fired plant set to be decommissioned. Amentum’s specialists, based in Brno, Czech Republic, will handle the work. After conducting initial scoping studies, the company won the contract through a public tender to produce comprehensive EIAs. These reports will address radiological risks, waste management, accident scenarios, groundwater and river protection, transport, noise, and dispersion. Once completed, the EIAs will undergo public hearings and an independent review before approval by the Czech Ministry of the Environment.

Andy White, Senior Vice President of Amentum Energy & Environment International, stated: “Our global nuclear capability, combined with our long-standing presence in Czechia and deep knowledge of the planning process, makes us the ideal partner to advance this strategic project. Our objective is to help ?EZ and Rolls-Royce take a huge step along the critical path towards demonstrating the effectiveness of SMRs for decarbonising electricity production.” In October of the previous year, ?EZ acquired a 20% stake in Rolls-Royce SMR, aiming to deploy SMRs with up to 3 gigawatts (GW) of capacity in the Czech Republic.

The Rolls-Royce SMR, a 470-megawatt electrical (MWe) design, uses a small pressurized water reactor to deliver reliable baseload power for at least 60 years. Measuring about 16 meters by 4 meters, 90% of the unit will be factory-built, with on-site work focused on assembling pre-fabricated, tested modules. This approach reduces construction risks and accelerates timelines. The Czech Republic currently relies on nuclear power for roughly one-third of its electricity, generated by four VVER-440 units at Dukovany (operational since 1985-1987) and two VVER-1000 units at Temelin (operational since 2000-2002). In July 2024, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power was selected to build up to four new units at these sites, with the first targeted for 2038.

The Czech SMR roadmap, approved in November 2023, outlines technology options, identifies 45 potential sites, and explores investment models. It envisions SMRs complementing larger nuclear units from the 2030s onward, supporting the nation’s clean energy goals. Amentum’s role strengthens this vision by ensuring thorough environmental planning for the Temelin and Tušimice projects.