Rolls-Royce, a company with over a century of experience in powering, protecting, and connecting the modern world, has announced a significant step forward in the development of advanced nuclear technologies. The company has entered into two trilateral Memorandums of Cooperation (MoCs) with the United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL) and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA). These agreements are designed to expedite the introduction of advanced nuclear technologies within the UK.
The collaborative efforts will focus on advancing High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Advanced Modular Reactor (AMR) technology and the development of next-generation Coated Particle Fuel (CPF), which is crucial for powering these reactors. These MoCs build upon established working relationships between Rolls-Royce and UKNNL, as well as between UKNNL and JAEA, fostering a strong foundation for future cooperation.
The partnership will underscore the collective ambition of all parties to accelerate the research and development necessary for the deployment of AMRs. Furthermore, the collaboration aims to progress the qualification and manufacture of CPF.
Recent assessments by the UK’s independent Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce have identified nuclear technology as being vital for the UK’s economic growth, energy security, and national defence. This new trilateral relationship is set to enhance the UK’s sovereign nuclear technology capabilities and reinforce the cooperative ties between the UK and Japan in the realm of clean energy and nuclear technologies. The development of advanced nuclear technologies is seen as a critical pathway to achieving these national objectives.
Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) possess the capability to deliver enhanced energy resilience and facilitate decarbonization across civil, defence, and industrial sectors. These reactors are characterized by their compact size and rapid deployment potential, offering a flexible nuclear energy solution for off-grid customers requiring safe, secure, and reliable heat and power. The inherent safety features of AMRs are significantly boosted by Coated Particle Fuel. In this advanced fuel, each particle of uranium is encased in protective layers, allowing it to withstand even the most extreme operational conditions.
Chris Cholerton, Group President, Rolls-Royce, said, “Our two agreements with UKNNL and JAEA are a milestone moment for the UK’s nuclear sector.”
Rolls-Royce possesses unique, end-to-end capabilities in the nuclear field, with extensive lifecycle experience and a proven track record in delivering reliable power solutions.
Building on the success of Rolls-Royce SMR in the Great British Energy – Nuclear selection process, Rolls-Royce is actively seeking to expand its nuclear portfolio and explore opportunities within the Advanced Modular Reactor (AMR) market. While distinct in reactor technology, size, and power output from the Rolls-Royce SMR, the Rolls-Royce AMR benefits from the same innovative modular design principles and build certainty.
To fully realize the economic and security benefits of these advanced nuclear technologies, the UK requires a comprehensive end-to-end capability and a supportive ecosystem. Rolls-Royce, UKNNL, and JAEA are committed to pooling their expertise to sustain and develop the necessary workforce and skills for the nuclear industry. They also aim to foster innovation through increased access to state-of-the-art facilities and capabilities, ultimately delivering advanced nuclear solutions and ensuring sustainable energy resilience for a diverse range of industries.
Masanori Koguchi, JAEA President, said, “It is my great pleasure to strengthen our collaboration with the UK, working with our long-term partner UKNNL, and Rolls-Royce, under this Memorandum of Cooperation. I hope that through our expertise in High Temperature Gas Reactor technologies, this collaboration will lead to their early deployment, a significant step towards net zero.”
Julianne Antrobus, CEO of UKNNL, said, “I’m delighted that UKNNL has strengthened its partnership with Rolls-Royce and JAEA. This matters because of what it means for the UK and beyond. Advanced nuclear technologies have the potential to deliver clean, safe and reliable energy, stimulating economic growth while supporting the decarbonisation of industries that millions of people work in. Getting these technologies deployed is an economic and social opportunity that the UK is well placed to seize.”
