Rolls-Royce to create 6,000 UK jobs to build 16 mini nuclear power stations

SMR transporter

RR has also linked up with American and Czech nuclear firms with a view to developing the international market. Hard to see how the government can get anywhere near its ‘net zero’ electricity targets without this technology. They keep saying ‘build back better’ so here’s an obvious chance to do that, as existing UK nuclear is being retired.
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A consortium led by the engine maker is hoping to secure a further £217m of funding from the government for the project, says Sky News.

A group led by Rolls-Royce has pledged to create 6,000 regional UK jobs within the next five years under plans to build 16 mini nuclear power stations.

The consortium said the jobs would help support the government’s “levelling up” agenda, with up to 80% of the power station components set to be made in factories across the Midlands and the north of England.

These components would then be sent on to existing nuclear sites around the country for rapid assembly.

The plans come at a crucial time for the UK amid rising unemployment caused by the pandemic.

They could also help revive the fortunes of the engine maker Rolls-Royce, which is slashing 9,000 jobs to offset the hit from coronavirus, around two-thirds of them in the UK.

As well as the potential to create 6,000 jobs by 2025, the nuclear power plant plans could deliver a further 34,000 roles in 15 years, most of which would be high value manufacturing jobs.

The consortium – which also includes National Nuclear Laboratory and the construction company Laing O’Rourke – said it is hoping to get a “clear commitment” from the government for the flat-packed power station project.

The government handed the Rolls-Royce-led coalition £18m last year to design the small modular reactors (SMR).

The consortium matched the funding and is now looking to secure a further £217m, which would also be matched by industry.

Full report here.