US and UK Forge “Golden Age” of Nuclear Energy with Landmark SMR Deals

September 22, 2025

The United States and the United Kingdom have solidified a strategic alliance in nuclear energy, signing a series of groundbreaking deals focused on the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced nuclear technologies. This "Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy" aims to accelerate the adoption of next-generation nuclear power, reduce regulatory approval times, and bolster energy security for both nations.

Key Takeaways

Accelerated Deployment: Regulatory approval timelines for new reactors are targeted to be reduced from four years to as little as two.
SMR Focus: Significant investment in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) for various applications, including data centers and industrial heat.
Economic Boost: The deals are projected to create thousands of jobs and generate billions of pounds in economic value for both countries.
Energy Security: Aims to reduce dependence on Russian nuclear materials by 2028.

Major Projects and Investments

The partnership encompasses several high-profile projects. US nuclear firm X-energy is set to collaborate with the UK’s Centrica to construct up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, a development expected to power 1.5 million homes and create approximately 2,500 jobs. Another significant venture involves US company Holtec, France’s EDF, and UK firm Tritax, which will invest approximately $15 billion to develop advanced data centers powered by SMRs in Nottinghamshire.

Further initiatives include a study by TerraPower and KBR to identify suitable UK sites for Natrium advanced reactor technology, and a deal between Radiant and Urenco to supply high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) for US advanced reactors. Rolls-Royce is also a key player, leading efforts to design and deploy the UK’s first SMR fleet.

The Rise of Small Modular Reactors

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are a central focus of this new era in nuclear energy. These reactors are smaller than traditional nuclear power stations, with much of their equipment built in factories, making them quicker, cheaper, and less risky to construct. They are categorized into Generation III (smaller versions of current reactors) and Generation IV/AMRs, which utilize novel cooling methods or fuels for enhanced efficiency and flexibility.

Globally, nuclear energy generation has reached new highs, with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) projecting a significant increase in nuclear capacity by 2050, partly driven by the anticipated role of SMRs. The UK’s own nuclear capacity has seen a decline from its peak, with aging reactors facing decommissioning. SMRs are seen as a crucial solution to expand capacity efficiently and within budget.

Addressing Challenges and Future Outlook

While the agreement signals a strong commitment to nuclear power, challenges remain. Past large-scale nuclear projects in the UK have faced significant cost and time overruns. Ensuring a skilled workforce for construction and engineering, managing nuclear waste, and connecting new projects to the National Grid are also key considerations. However, the streamlined licensing process and the factory-built nature of SMRs offer promising solutions to these hurdles, potentially ushering in a new "golden age" of nuclear energy for both the US and the UK.