Britain is positioning itself to become one of the first countries to deploy advanced nuclear power stations capable of supplying clean, reliable energy to factories and AI data centres. As part of what the government describes as a “golden age” of nuclear energy, these initiatives aim to support skilled jobs, boost economic growth, strengthen energy security, and protect consumers through domestically produced low-carbon power.
On 4 February, the UK government published a first-of-its-kind Advanced Nuclear Framework designed to stimulate private investment in innovative nuclear technologies. The framework provides a clear route to market for credible projects and outlines how government support can help advanced nuclear developments move from concept to delivery, while remaining primarily privately financed.
The UK is emerging as an early leader in privately driven advanced nuclear projects, supported by recent commercial agreements between British and US companies. Notable plans include proposals by X-energy and Centrica to build advanced modular reactors at Hartlepool, potentially supporting around 2,500 jobs, and plans by Holtec, EDF and Tritax to develop small modular reactors at the former Cottam coal power station in Nottinghamshire to supply clean power directly to data centres. TerraPower is also exploring the deployment of its Natrium reactor technology in the UK in partnership with engineering firm KBR.
To accelerate deployment, the government is launching a national pipeline of advanced nuclear projects that meet defined readiness criteria. Developers will be supported through a concierge-style service to navigate planning, regulation, fuel requirements, and financing, helping to attract private capital and reduce project risks. Eligible projects can apply to join the pipeline from March, with assessments led by government experts and Great British Energy-Nuclear.
Advanced nuclear technologies, including small, advanced, and micro modular reactors, are designed to be factory-manufactured, enabling faster construction and lower costs compared to traditional nuclear plants. These technologies can supply electricity to the national grid or provide dedicated clean power and high-temperature heat directly to industrial users, supporting decarbonisation across multiple sectors.
The framework builds on the largest government investment in nuclear power in a generation, including approval for the Sizewell C project in Suffolk and the selection of Wylfa in North Wales as the host site for the UK’s first small modular reactors. Developers of successful pipeline projects may receive in-principle government endorsement, unlocking potential discussions on revenue support, limited risk protections for rare events, and engagement with the National Wealth Fund as a catalytic investor.
Advanced reactors rely on innovative fuels and cooling systems that enable higher operating temperatures, making them suitable for energy-intensive uses such as data centres and industrial manufacturing. Developers are targeting the mid-2030s for the first advanced modular reactors to become operational in the UK.
In parallel, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority is releasing surplus land at former nuclear sites in England, Scotland and Wales for clean energy development. The government has also published a Statement on Civil Nuclear Fuel Use, providing long-term clarity on uranium-based fuels, waste management, environmental protection, and national energy security objectives.
Industry leaders, trade unions, investors, and nuclear technology developers have broadly welcomed the framework, highlighting its potential to unlock private investment, accelerate deployment, support regional economic growth, and reinforce the UK’s position as a global leader in advanced nuclear energy. The initiative is widely seen as a critical step toward translating long-term nuclear ambition into operational projects that deliver clean power, skilled jobs, and industrial competitiveness.
