UK publishes Advanced Nuclear Framework to speed reactor deployment

The UK Government has published an Advanced Nuclear Framework to accelerate deployment of advanced, small and micro modular reactors and to stimulate private investment.

• Main action: The government is launching a curated pipeline of credible projects (developers can submit proposals from March) with a concierge-style service to help navigate UK planning, regulation and fuel; successful projects can receive in-principle government endorsement, access discussions on revenue support and risk protections, and approach the National Wealth Fund as a catalytic investor. Key named projects include X-Energy and Centrica planning up to 12 AMRs at Hartlepool (supporting around 2,500 jobs), and Holtec, EDF and Tritax planning an SMR at Cottam; developers aim for first AMRs operational in the mid-2030s.

• Background and details: The Framework complements the government’s recent support for Sizewell C and selection of Wylfa for SMRs, sets criteria for pipeline entry (technology status, developer capability, financing plans), and is paired with a Statement on Civil Nuclear Fuel Use to clarify uranium-fuel requirements; the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority is releasing surplus sites (e.g., Chapelcross, Pioneer Park, Trawsfynydd) for clean energy projects.