UK and US Forge Nuclear Alliance to Bolster Energy Security and Drive Economic Growth

January 27, 2026

The United Kingdom and the United States have announced a significant nuclear energy partnership aimed at enhancing energy security, fostering economic growth, and accelerating the deployment of new nuclear power technologies. This landmark agreement is set to streamline regulatory processes, encourage private investment, and create thousands of jobs in both nations, marking a new era for nuclear energy.

Key Takeaways

A new UK-US government agreement will expedite the licensing process for nuclear projects, potentially halving approval times.
Multiple commercial deals between UK and US companies are expected to drive billions in private investment for new nuclear power plants.
The partnership aims to create thousands of skilled jobs across the UK, particularly in industrial heartlands.
Collaboration will extend to advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and fusion energy.
The deal seeks to eliminate dependencies on Russian nuclear materials by the end of 2028.

A New Era for Nuclear Power

The "Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy" is designed to make it quicker and easier for companies to build new nuclear power stations in both countries. By allowing reactor design checks approved in one nation to be recognized by the other, the process for regulatory approval could be reduced from up to four years to approximately two. This streamlined approach is expected to accelerate the deployment of advanced reactor designs, including those from Rolls-Royce SMR.

Driving Investment and Job Creation

This governmental agreement underpins a series of major commercial deals. Notable among these are plans by X-Energy and Centrica to build up to 12 advanced modular reactors (AMRs) in Hartlepool, potentially generating enough power for 1.5 million homes and creating up to 2,500 jobs. Other collaborations include Holtec, EDF, and Tritax developing data centers powered by small modular reactors, and Last Energy and DP World establishing micro modular nuclear power plants. These projects are projected to deliver significant economic value, with estimates suggesting billions in economic impact and substantial job creation in regions like the North East of England.

Advancing Nuclear Technology and Fusion Energy

The partnership extends beyond traditional nuclear power, encompassing collaboration in fusion energy research. British and American expertise will be combined with AI technology to develop advanced simulation tools, aiming to fast-track progress towards commercial fusion power. A Global Fusion Energy Policy Summit is planned for 2026 in the United States to further strengthen international cooperation in this field.

Enhancing Energy Security

A critical component of the agreement is the commitment to eliminate any remaining dependencies on Russian nuclear material by the end of 2028. This move aims to bolster the resilience of fuel supply chains and reduce global reliance on potentially hostile energy sources, further strengthening energy security for both the UK and the US.

Government and Industry Support

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that the partnership is about powering the economy and communities, heralding a "golden age of nuclear" that will lower bills and create jobs. U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright highlighted the role of commercial nuclear power in meeting rising energy demand and fueling the AI revolution, stressing the importance of allied partnerships. Industry leaders from companies like Centrica, X-Energy, and Rolls-Royce have welcomed the agreement, expressing confidence in its potential to drive innovation, investment, and job growth.