Westinghouse Electric Company has secured formal approval from the UK Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to advance its AP300™ Small Modular Reactor (SMR) into the Generic Design Assessment (GDA) phase. This marks a significant step in the technology licensing process, crucial for bringing the AP300 SMR to market in the UK.
The AP300 SMR will now undergo the initial phase of the two-step GDA process, which involves working closely with the Office for Nuclear Regulation, the Environment Agency, and potentially Natural Resources Wales. This process will evaluate the reactor’s design and its adherence to safety and environmental standards.
The AP300 SMR design builds on Westinghouse’s established Gen III+ AP1000® technology, which has already received regulatory approval in Great Britain, the United States, and China. This advanced technology meets European Utility Requirements (EUR) standards for nuclear power plants, offering significant advantages in licensing and reducing delivery risks for utility, oil and gas, and industrial sectors.
Dan Lipman, President of Westinghouse Energy Systems, expressed gratitude to DESNZ for their prompt and favourable review of the AP300 SMR application. He noted that the familiarity with the AP300’s technology and Westinghouse’s successful licensing history in the UK and globally provide confidence in a swift progression through the GDA process.
The approval follows the AP300 SMR’s selection for the current phase of the Great British Nuclear initiative in October. It was also chosen by Community Nuclear Power Ltd. (CNP) to construct four AP300 SMRs in Northeast England. These projects will capitalise on Westinghouse’s 75-year legacy of nuclear manufacturing at its Springfields facility in Lancashire.
Unique among small modular reactors, the AP300 is based on the proven AP1000 technology, which is already operational worldwide. This existing technology helps mitigate the risks associated with new reactor designs, as it utilises established engineering, components, and supply chains. Westinghouse’s approach promises a streamlined licensing process and a quicker deployment timeline, with the first unit expected to begin operation in the early 2030s.
Economic forecasts for the AP300 SMR are underpinned by thorough analyses and cost data from existing AP1000 reactors. The SMR is currently under consideration by potential customers in the UK, Europe, and North America.
Westinghouse Electric Company continues to lead in the development of carbon-free energy solutions, with a legacy spanning over 135 years. The company’s technology has been foundational to nearly half of the world’s operating nuclear plants. For more details, visit Westinghouse Nuclear.
