Holtec, a US nuclear power giant, recently visited the West Midlands as part of its bid to select a location for a new small modular reactor (SMR) factory, with an initial investment of £1.3 billion. The West Midlands is one of four shortlisted regions in England, alongside South Yorkshire, Tees Valley, and Cumbria.

The competition aims to find a site for building a fleet of SMRs for deployment in the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. The proposed 49.4-acre site in the West Midlands is expected to generate thousands of jobs over the next 15 years and contribute approximately £1.5 billion in gross value added to the local economy.

The West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) led Holtec's visit, showcasing the region's advanced manufacturing capabilities and low carbon investment potential, including a tour of the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) at Ansty Park, Coventry.

Professor Dame Julia King, Baroness Brown of Cambridge, Holtec's senior adviser in the UK, expressed gratitude for the hospitality and highlighted the region's advanced facilities, skilled workforce, and historical manufacturing prowess. She emphasized that the SMR factory would create a significant export market and generate highly skilled jobs.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, emphasized the region's readiness to support Holtec, citing its industrial heritage, skilled workforce, and central connectivity as key advantages. He also noted the upcoming Regional Energy Strategy, which aims to support a sustainable energy transition.

A final decision on the location is expected in the autumn. The chosen site will produce two to four reactors per year, valued at £1-2 billion each, without handling any nuclear fuel.

Source: insidermedia.com