Wylfa chosen as SMR site

Wylfa Power Station Anglesey

Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) has confirmed that Wylfa on Anglesey has been selected as the site for the UK’s first Small Modular Reactor (SMR), marking a major milestone in the government’s Clean Energy Superpower plan.

This strategic infrastructure project will deliver up to 1.5GW of low-carbon energy to the grid, supporting the UK’s net zero goals and enhancing energy security. The development will also bring significant economic benefits to Wales, including up to 3,000 jobs during peak construction and long-term career opportunities.

Simon Bowen, Chair of GBE-N, added: “!This is a historic moment for the UK, and is another momentous step in realising Britain’s potential in leading the way on nuclear energy.

“These first SMRs at Wylfa will lay the groundwork for a fleet-based approach to nuclear development, strengthening the UK’s energy independence and bringing long-term investment to the local economy.

“Wylfa has a proud history of nuclear excellence, and we’re excited to build on that foundation to deliver jobs, training, and low-carbon energy for generations to come.”

The SMR programme is backed by £2.5 billion in government funding and is designed to attract private investment, strengthen the UK supply chain, and reduce reliance on imported energy.

GBE-N will continue to engage with local communities and stakeholders to ensure the project delivers lasting value and maintains public trust.

The Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) has welcomed the news, describing it as a milestone for clean energy, energy security and economic growth.

The new plant is expected to create up to 900 permanent jobs once operational and several thousand during construction, delivering a major boost to North Wales and the national engineering supply chain.

Ben Brittain, Director of Public Affairs at ACE, said: “Confirming Wylfa as the site for Britain’s next SMR is a huge step forward for the UK’s energy ambitions. This is exactly the kind of project that shows how we can marry clean energy with good jobs, innovation and long-term economic benefit for communities right across the country.

“The challenge now is delivery – getting spades in the ground, maintaining momentum and making sure the benefits are felt locally as well as nationally.

“As the government promised, Britain is entering its golden age of nuclear and ACE members are at the forefront of delivering that critical energy infrastructure, working in partnership across industry and government to bring the global engineering excellence and expertise needed to turn the government’s ambition into reality.”

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