What are small nuclear reactors and why does the UK want to build them?
Published: 6/10/2025

Rolls Royce has been chosen to develop the UK's first small modular nuclear power stations, aiming to address the country's growing electricity demand and create jobs. These mini nuclear reactors are designed to be faster and more cost-effective than traditional reactors, boosting the UK's nuclear capacity. The UK government sees small modular reactors as a step towards a secure, reliable, and low-carbon energy system, with plans for these reactors to be operational by the mid-2030s, enhancing the country's energy infrastructure and potentially reducing electricity bills in the future.