X-energy UK and Cavendish Nuclear Convene British Suppliers to Support Early Deployment of Advanced Small Modular Reactors

X-Energy Reactor Company, LLC (“X-energy” or the “Company”), a leading developer of advanced small modular nuclear reactors and fuel technology for clean energy generation, announced that more than 70 British engineering, construction and manufacturing companies this week joined X-energy UK Holdings, a wholly owned subsidiary of X-energy, and deployment partner Cavendish Nuclear, part of Babcock International group, for a program of presentations and meetings in Bristol, to explore how they can support the roll-out of advanced nuclear power stations in the UK.

The plan is to deliver a fleet of advanced, small modular Xe-100 reactors in the UK to address the challenges of energy security and decarbonization, with the first unit planned for commercial operation in 2030 and a goal to secure up to 80% of its construction and manufacturing from the UK supply chain. The technology is more compact than traditional nuclear plants with factory-built components easily assembled on site, making each one cheaper and quicker to construct, and with a greater range of available locations.

The reactors are designed to be capable of producing both electricity and higher-temperature heat and steam than conventional ‘small modular reactors’ and can supply electricity and heat for hydrogen production and replace fossil fuel-generated heat for industrial processes.

In addition, the spherical fuel ‘pebbles’ that act as containment vessels in themselves, are able to withstand extremely high temperatures and naturally remain stable in the event of any foreseeable disruptions. This intrinsic safety reduces the need for many of the largest, most expensive and time-consuming structures and systems found in traditional nuclear plants.

The Xe-100 can deliver reliable ‘always-on’ electricity as well as increase or decrease power levels safely within minutes to respond to varying demand or supply, making it an ideal complement to weather-dependent renewable energy, and reducing the need for gas-fired power stations or battery storage as a backup.

Carol Tansley, X-energy’s Vice President of UK New Build Projects said: “Until now it’s been widely expected that advanced reactors would not be ready until around 2040 at the earliest, but X-energy’s technology is ready for the market and advanced in its design and applications.

“We’re in discussions with various parties regarding siting options in the UK. The ability to significantly reduce emissions from industrial heat applications makes it a great technology for sites like Hartlepool on Teesside, which is already home to a nuclear power station.