Net Zero Secretary Ed Miliband has firmly dismissed American complaints after snubbing US companies for a major nuclear power development in North Wales, insisting he makes 'no apologies' for choosing British firm Rolls-Royce to build the country's first small modular reactor.
Anglesey Site Sparks Transatlantic Tension
The decision concerning the prime Wylfa site in Anglesey has drawn sharp criticism from US ambassador Warren Stephens, who described it as 'extremely disappointing'. The choice dashed hopes of American energy giant Westinghouse, which had planned to construct at least two large reactors at the location.
During broadcast interviews this morning, Mr Miliband defended his position, stating he was acting in the 'national interest'. He told Times Radio: 'The reason he doesn't think it's so great is because he wanted a US company to be at this site. We chose a British company, Rolls-Royce for this site, and I make no apologies for that.'
Government's Nuclear Vision Takes Shape
The government is pushing forward with the project through Great British Energy-Nuclear, backed by £2.5 billion in state funding. Ministers claim the initiative will reduce energy bills while creating substantial employment opportunities.
According to the Net Zero Department, the development will support up to 3,000 jobs in the local economy during peak construction phases. The Rolls-Royce small modular reactors are expected to generate sufficient electricity to power approximately three million British homes.
In a rare public rebuke, Ambassador Stephens countered: 'We are extremely disappointed... not least because there are cheaper, faster and already approved options to provide clean, safe energy at this same location.'
Broader Nuclear Strategy Unveiled
Ministers have simultaneously announced that the publicly owned nuclear body will search for sites for another large-scale power plant, similar to those under construction at Hinkley Point in Somerset and Sizewell in Suffolk. This assessment is due for completion by autumn 2026.
Mr Miliband has directed the organisation to consider locations across the UK, including Scottish sites. The move represents the latest friction between Labour and Donald Trump's administration regarding UK energy policy, following the US President's recent advice to Sir Keir Starmer to abandon wind power in favour of North Sea drilling.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasised the project's significance, stating: 'Britain was once a world leader in nuclear power, but years of neglect and inertia has meant places like Anglesey have been let down and left behind. Today, that changes.'
The development marks a revival for Wylfa, where previous attempts to restore nuclear power to the site of a former reactor had previously failed. The government describes small modular reactors as mini nuclear power stations designed for onsite installation as prefabricated modules, offering potentially faster construction than traditional plants like Hinkley Point C.
