UK to Build Its First SMR Nuclear Power Station
13th Nov. 2025
North Wales is going to see an economic revival after the PM Keir Starmer confirmed that Wylfa will host the UK’s first small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power station. The landmark decision is expected to create thousands of skilled jobs and bring billions in investment. As a result, it transforms Anglesey and its surrounding areas over the next ten years.
Once central to Britain’s nuclear heritage, the Wylfa Site will now spearhead what officials call a “new golden era” of clean energy. While the final contracts are pending, Rolls-Royce SMR and Great British Energy Nuclear will deliver Small Modular Reactors. The project is meant to show that the UK can still build ambitious, long-lasting infrastructure. Meanwhile, it also aims to make sure that the UK can be energy-independent in the long term.
At peak construction, the Wylfa plant is expected to create around 3,000 local jobs and bring in over £2.5 billion in infrastructure investment. This is a significant boost to the ongoing government efforts to support the North Wales economy. Along with this, it includes Anglesey Freeport, an Investment Zone that focuses on manufacturing, and vital upgrades to the North Wales Mainline.
SMRs, which are faster and smaller to mold than traditional reactors, are likely to power roughly three million homes. With the support of public ownership via Great British Energy, the technology not only offers notable export potential but also reinforces the UK’s sovereign energy capability.
Prime Minister Starmer stated that “the decision marks a turning point for regions long overlooked”. He also promised “thousands of future-proofed jobs” and “cheaper energy bills for households.”
Construction is anticipated to start in 2026, with three modular units initially, and then it will potentially expand to eight. The reactors are expected to furnish power to the national grid by the mid-2030s. Ultimately, it positions North Wales at the heart of Britain’s clean energy revolution.
Web Resources on the Small Nuclear Power Station
1. BBC.com: UK’s first small nuclear power station to be built in north Wales
2. Gov.uk: North Wales to pioneer UK’s first small modular reactors
3. Reuters.com: UK selects North Wales as site for first mini nuclear power station