Westinghouse Electric Company proudly announces that its AP300™ Small Modular Reactor (SMR) has been shortlisted by Great British Nuclear (GBN) for the concluding phase of the UK’s Newbuild Programme.
Acknowledgement of Advanced Reactor Design
Patrick Fragman, President and CEO of Westinghouse, expressed enthusiasm about this recognition, stating, “We are thrilled that GBN sees the potential of the AP300 SMR design, which builds on an existing reactor model already licensed in the UK. Our proven technologies and familiarity with regulatory standards mean that the AP300 can be deployed swiftly, economically, and with reliability. We look forward to collaborating with GBN during the final evaluation and selection process.”
Supporting the UK’s Nuclear Goals
Initiated in July 2023, GBN is committed to advancing the UK government’s initiative to achieve up to 24GW of nuclear power by 2050, ensuring a secure energy future. GBN’s main goal is to perform a competitive assessment aimed at identifying the most efficient SMR technologies from around the world. The AP300 SMR was selected in the first round of this competition and has recently gained approval to commence the Generic Design Assessment (GDA) process by the UK government.
Utilizing Established Technology
The AP300 SMR distinguishes itself as the sole SMR based on an advanced Generation III+ reactor, leveraging the reliable AP1000® technology, which has been successfully licensed in the UK. In contrast to other SMRs that rely on novel technologies and face inherent risks, the AP300 utilises the engineering framework, components, and supply chain of the AP1000. This strategy ensures a more straightforward licensing process and capitalises on existing technical expertise, providing confidence that the first operational unit can be operational by the early 2030s.
Economic Benefits of AP300 SMR
The economic advantages of the AP300 SMR are underpinned by detailed assessments and established project costs derived from AP1000 reactors currently operational or in development across three continents. The AP300 SMR is actively being considered by clients across the UK, Europe, and North America.
Commitment to the UK Nuclear Supply Chain
With a rich history of 75 years in nuclear operations and reactor deployment in the UK, Westinghouse is dedicated to fostering the growth of the UK’s nuclear supply chain. The company aims to deliver the economic benefits of nuclear construction projects both in the UK and from international markets. Westinghouse’s Springfields site is recognised as one of the most sophisticated nuclear fuel manufacturing facilities globally, employing around 1,000 individuals to produce fuel for the UK’s reactor fleet and beyond. Notably, more than a third of the workforce at Springfields has been trained through the Apprentice Training Centre, successfully recruiting nearly 2,000 apprentices from the local community.
Pioneering Clean Energy Solutions
Westinghouse Electric Company is at the forefront of shaping a sustainable energy future by providing safe, innovative nuclear technologies and services on a global scale. The company was the first to supply a commercial pressurised water reactor in 1957, and its technology underpins nearly half of the world’s operational nuclear plants. With over 135 years of commitment to innovation, Westinghouse continues to be the partner of choice for advanced technologies throughout the complete nuclear energy lifecycle.
