Framatome announced today that it is planning the construction of a nuclear fuel fabrication facility in the UK and is evaluating targeted local industrial sites in engagement with the UK Government’s Department for Energy Security and Net-Zero (DESNZ) and EDF in the UK.
The current assessment of selected existing and former nuclear generation sites precedes detailed site justification and pre-licensing studies expected to be engaged in 2024 under the guidance of the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
The project is part of Framatome’s strategy to scale up its operations in the UK in preparation for the new generation of nuclear reactors. The facility will manufacture nuclear fuel for large Pressurized Water Reactors (PWR) and Light Water Small Modular Reactors (SMR) to supply the future nuclear fleet in the UK and to support the wider deployment of SMRs in Europe. EDF is currently building two EPR reactors at Hinkley Point C, with a further two planned at Sizewell C. The UK government recently announced the preselection of six SMR designs with the objective to deliver operational reactors by mid-2030.
“We have been supporting the UK nuclear power market for over 25 years and it is a focal point of business for Framatome. We remain deeply committed to helping the country meet its net zero targets,” declared Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome. “This multi-design fuel fabrication facility will help reduce UK reliance on imports and strengthen security of fuel supply through a diverse and resilient supply chain.”
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is being aided in its engagement by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) which is supporting the government’s energy security strategy with its expertise, resources and assets. The NDA is tasked with decommissioning the UK’s legacy nuclear sites safely, securely and sustainably to free up the land for other uses.
Framatome supports the maintenance and long-term operation of existing plants in the UK and is participating in the construction of the new EPR reactors at Hinkley Point C and the future Sizewell C plant. The company is rapidly expanding its workforce and activities in the UK; Framatome recently acquired both EFINOR and BHR, and works closely with EDVANCE UK.
“In line with our ambitious growth objectives, Framatome actively recruits highly skilled employees each year in the UK where we currently employ 300 people. We are proud to work with the UK government to further grow the economy and create jobs – all while helping deliver clean, reliable, home-grown energy,” said Ralf Gathmann, CEO of Framatome Ltd.