Four potential locations have been shortlisted for a new factory that will manufacture small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). Kingmoor Park in Carlisle is among the sites, alongside locations in Tees Valley, the West Midlands, and South Yorkshire. Holtec Britain, the company behind the ambitious project, narrowed down the choices from an initial list of 14.
Key Takeaways
- Four sites are in contention for a new SMR factory.
- The factory will produce 2-4 reactors annually, valued at £1-£2 billion each.
- The project is expected to create hundreds of highly skilled jobs.
Factory Production and Scope
The chosen site will be equipped to produce between two and four SMRs per year. These reactors, each valued at an estimated £1 billion to £2 billion, are intended for deployment across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. It is important to note that the factory itself will not handle any nuclear fuel, according to Cumberland Council.
Economic Impact and Future Decisions
The shortlisting of these sites marks a significant step forward for the SMR project. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen expressed enthusiasm for the potential economic benefits, highlighting the prospect of creating approximately 400 highly skilled and well-paid jobs for local residents. This influx of employment opportunities is seen as a substantial boost for the region.
The final decision regarding the factory’s location is anticipated in the autumn. While Kingmoor Park has been publicly identified, the specific locations within Tees Valley, the West Midlands, and South Yorkshire are yet to be disclosed.
