Great British Nuclear (GBN) continues its selection process for small modular reactors (SMRs), with GE Hitachi and Rolls-Royce SMR confirming they have submitted their final tender responses. These submissions mark a key milestone in the ongoing competition to advance the UK’s nuclear energy plans. GBN, tasked with overseeing new nuclear projects, initially shortlisted six companies before narrowing the list to four last September. The other two contenders, Holtec and Westinghouse, are also part of the final tender phase, which began in February with the issuance of Invitations to Submit Final Tenders.

The goal is to select up to three SMR technologies for deployment across multiple units at designated sites. Potential locations include Wylfa in Anglesey, North Wales, and Oldbury in Gloucestershire, both owned by GBN, though additional sites may be considered. The selected designs aim to leverage modular construction for efficiency and speed. GE Hitachi’s BWRX-300 is a boiling water reactor, while Holtec’s SMR-300 and Westinghouse’s AP300 are pressurised water reactors, with capacities of 300 MWe and 300 MWe/900 MWt, respectively. Rolls-Royce SMR offers a 470 MWe pressurised water reactor. Each design builds on proven technology to ensure reliability and scalability.

Andy Champ, GE Hitachi’s UK Country Leader, commented on the tender: “The government has a unique opportunity to position the UK at the forefront of delivering the next generation of nuclear power and this submission marks a significant step forward in achieving this goal. The BWRX-300 offers a simplified, safe, and scalable design, backed by a proven track record of advancing SMR technology internationally. Together with our strategic investment partners, we are eager to bring this expertise to the UK.”

Chris Cholerton, CEO of Rolls-Royce SMR, also expressed confidence: “I am grateful for the dedication and teamwork of everyone at Rolls-Royce SMR who has contributed to our submission. We have a world-class team behind a market-leading product, and I am confident we have provided a compelling offer to GBN, to partner with them in delivering the next generation of nuclear power for the UK.”

GBN aims to finalize its technology selection before the summer, with a final investment decision expected in 2029. The chosen providers may receive contracts for co-funding through design, regulatory, and environmental approvals, as well as potential equipment supply agreements. Each technology could be deployed at a specific site capable of hosting multiple SMR units, supporting the UK’s commitment to sustainable energy development. The process remains on track, with all parties focused on delivering innovative and efficient nuclear solutions.