SMR new build plans have taken a step forward as Centrica and X-Energy sign a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) that will see nearly 1 GW of Xe-100 Small Modular Reactor (SMR) capacity built at the UK’s Hartlepool reactor site.
Owned by EDF and Centrica and identified as the preferred first site for a planned UK fleet of up to 6 GW, a 12-unit Xe-100 deployment at Hartlepool could add up to 960 MW of capacity. The project is to be developed at a site adjacent to Hartlepool’s existing nuclear power station, which is currently scheduled to shut down in 2028. The site is already designated for new nuclear under the Government’s National Policy Statement.
Centrica will provide initial project capital for development of the SMR new build project with the goal of initiating full-scale activities in 2026. Subject to regulatory approval, the first electricity generation would be expected in the mid-2030s. A new plant would also play a role in generating high-temperature heat to support heavy industries in nearby Teesside.
Centrica and X-energy are already in discussions with additional potential equity partners, as well as leading global engineering and construction companies, with the goal of establishing a UK-based development company to develop this first and subsequent projects.
In a statement Centrica says the deal could be worth over £12bn (US$16bn) in lifetime economic value and represents the first stage in a new trans-Atlantic alliance which could ultimately mobilise at least £40bn ($54bn).
Chris O’Shea, CEO of Centrica said: “Our partnership with X-energy marks a bold step forward in delivering advanced nuclear technology that is not only scalable and secure, but also vital to clean industry and powering homes. The Xe-100 fleet will help build a resilient energy system that supports national security, affordability, and sustainability.”
UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Ed Miliband said: “This cross-Atlantic partnership demonstrates the transformative potential for the British people of US and UK businesses joining forces.” He added: “By working with the US, we will reap the benefits of this golden age of nuclear, powering British homes with clean, homegrown energy, delivering well-paid skilled jobs and getting energy bills down for good.”
X-energy’s small modular reactor is a high temperature gas cooled design and uses TRISO-X fuel with each unit designed to provide 80 MW of electricity, or 200 MW thermal heat. It’s first commercial unit is under development with Dow Inc. at a site in Texas in the US. A second unit is under development with Energy Northwest in collaboration with Amazon
The SMR move follows Centrica’s acquisition of a 15% stake in the Sizewell C nuclear power station under development in Suffolk, alongside HM Government (44.9%), La Caisse (20%), Électricité de France SA (EDF) (12.5%) and Amber Infrastructure Group (7.6%).
Centrica also owns a 20% share in Heysham 1 and Hartlepool which, it was recently announced, will get further life extensions and are now expected operate until March 2028, one year later than previously expected.
