UK and US Forge Landmark Nuclear Energy Pact to Bolster Security and Drive Innovation

March 3, 2026

The United Kingdom and the United States have solidified a groundbreaking agreement aimed at enhancing energy security through a significant expansion of nuclear power. This strategic alliance is set to accelerate the development of new nuclear power stations in both nations, fostering private investment, creating thousands of jobs, and reinforcing energy independence.

Key Takeaways

A new UK-US government agreement will streamline the licensing process for nuclear projects, potentially halving approval times.
Major commercial deals between UK and US companies are expected to drive billions in private investment for new nuclear power plants.
The pact aims to reduce reliance on Russian nuclear materials by 2028.
The initiative supports a "golden age" of nuclear power, boosting economic growth and energy security.

A New Era for Nuclear Power

The agreement, dubbed the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy, is designed to make it faster and more efficient for companies to build new nuclear facilities. By expediting licensing procedures, the partnership seeks to unlock significant private investment and accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies.

Several key commercial deals have been announced as part of this initiative:

X-Energy and Centrica: Plans to construct up to 12 advanced modular reactors (AMRs) in Hartlepool, with a potential UK-wide program aiming for 6GW of nuclear power. This project alone could generate enough electricity for 1.5 million homes and create up to 2,500 jobs, with an estimated economic value of £40 billion.
Holtec, EDF, and Tritax: Proposals to develop advanced data centers powered by small modular reactors (SMRs) at the former Cottam coal-fired power station in Nottinghamshire, valued at approximately £11 billion.
Last Energy and DP World: Plans for one of the world’s first micro modular nuclear power plants, backed by £80 million in private investment, to power the expansion of DP World’s London Gateway port.
Urenco and Radiant: A deal worth around £4 million to supply advanced High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel to the US market, with plans for a similar facility in the US.
TerraPower and KBR: To conduct studies and evaluate sites in the UK for the deployment of their Natrium advanced reactor technology.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

This expansion of nuclear power is central to the UK’s clean energy strategy, aiming to create a "golden age" of nuclear energy. The government anticipates that these projects will generate thousands of high-skilled jobs across the country, particularly in industrial heartlands. The nuclear industry in the UK already employs a record 98,000 people, and this initiative is expected to further boost employment and economic value.

Strengthening Energy Security

A critical aspect of the partnership is enhancing energy security by reducing dependence on foreign energy sources. Specifically, the agreement aims to eliminate any remaining reliance on Russian nuclear material by the end of 2028. This move is intended to further isolate Russia from global energy markets and bolster the resilience of fuel supply chains for both the UK and the US.

Innovation in Advanced Nuclear Technologies

The collaboration extends to the development of advanced nuclear technologies, including SMRs and AMRs. These smaller, factory-built reactors offer the potential for quicker deployment and lower costs compared to traditional large-scale plants. The UK is positioning itself as a leader in this field, with initiatives like the Rolls-Royce SMR program and the development of advanced fuel production facilities.

Fusion Energy Collaboration

Beyond fission power, the UK and US will also collaborate on fusion energy research. This includes coordinated experimental programs leveraging British and American expertise, combined with AI technology, to develop advanced simulation tools and fast-track progress towards commercial fusion power. A Global Fusion Energy Policy Summit is planned for 2026 in the United States to strengthen international cooperation in this area.