UK-based Rolls-Royce SMR has signed a memorandum of understanding with Czech company ÚJV Řež to deepen their cooperation in the field of small modular reactors. The agreement covers technical and regulatory activities specific to the Czech nuclear market, including engineering services, testing, evaluation of critical components, operational support and licensing procedures.
This strengthened cooperation comes as the Czech Republic has selected Rolls-Royce SMR’s technology to provide up to 3 GW of nuclear capacity. Czech energy group ČEZ, the country’s main nuclear operator, already holds a 20% stake in Rolls-Royce SMR.
Industrial expansion around the SMR programme
In parallel with the memorandum signing, Rolls-Royce SMR held a technical conference in Prague with its suppliers, highlighting opportunities for Czech companies to join the technology’s value chain. According to ČEZ, local firms are well positioned to contribute to the construction of these units both domestically and in international markets.
ÚJV Řež, 80% owned by ČEZ, is already engaged in a contract with Rolls-Royce SMR for analysis and validation of key equipment. Its Director General, Martin Rušcák, stated that the partnership would leverage the institute’s decades of nuclear expertise and support the national industry’s export ambitions.
Aiming to reduce construction risk
The technology developed by Rolls-Royce SMR is based on a 470 MWe pressurised water reactor designed to provide stable output for at least 60 years. The modular architecture enables 90% of the unit to be factory-built, with dimensions of around 16 metres by 4 metres. This approach is intended to reduce on-site risks and significantly shorten construction timelines.
The model has already been selected by both the Czech and UK governments for their national small modular reactor programmes. Rolls-Royce SMR Technical Director David Dodd emphasised ÚJV Řež’s reputation in the European nuclear sector and the value of this collaboration to the integrity of the technology programme.
