The UK government has confirmed that Wylfa on Anglesey in North Wales will host the country's first small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power station, marking a significant milestone in Britain's energy strategy.
Major Investment and Job Creation
This pioneering project will be developed by the publicly owned Great British Energy-Nuclear (GBE-N) and is supported by a substantial £2.5 billion government investment. The Energy Department estimates this initiative will support up to 3,000 jobs in the local economy during peak construction phases.
Activity on the former nuclear site is scheduled to commence in 2026, beginning with an initial project for three reactors. The site has the potential to eventually accommodate up to eight of these compact power plants, with the first electricity expected to reach the grid by the mid-2030s.
International Reactions and Future Plans
The announcement has drawn a critical response from the United States, with Ambassador Warren Stephens expressing that his country is "extremely disappointed" by the decision. The US had been advocating for a larger reactor at Wylfa, with American firm Westinghouse having presented plans for a new gigawatt-scale station at the location.
Simultaneously, the government has tasked GBE-N with identifying potential sites for another large-scale nuclear power plant, similar to those under construction at Hinkley Point and Sizewell. The organisation is expected to report back by autumn 2026 and has been directed by Energy Secretary Ed Miliband to consider locations across the UK, including Scotland.
Leadership Vision and Local Impact
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasised the transformative nature of the project, stating: "We're using all the tools in our armoury – cutting red tape, changing planning laws, and backing growth – to deliver the country's first SMR in North Wales."
The UK's inaugural small modular reactors, which are expected to be designed by Britain's Rolls-Royce SMR subject to final contract, are projected to generate sufficient electricity to power three million homes.
First Minister of Wales Eluned Morgan welcomed the development, describing it as "the moment Ynys Mon and the whole of Wales has been waiting for," highlighting the promise of secure jobs and energy for future generations.
