Hitachi Nuclear Energy announces that it has submitted a generic design evaluation application for the Small Modular Reactor (SMR).
A request for authorization
Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) submits the SMR, BWRX-300 to the UK Department for Energy and Industrial Strategy. There is international interest in the BWRX-300, including interest from SaskPower to deploy this model of SMR in Canada. The generic design evaluation process is designed to evaluate safety, security and environmental protection standards.
Jacobs is supporting Hitachi in the preparation of this approach. The company has been supporting the licensing of new nuclear power plant projects in the UK since 2007. Hitachi’s SMR represents a suitable technology to help the UK achieve its decarbonization and energy security plans.
The country’s goal is to have 24GW of nuclear generation capacity by 2050. Hitachi believes that a fleet of BWRX-300s would adequately meet these UK ambitions. Dawn James, Vice President, Nuclear Energy, Jacobs, states:
“Our work with Hitachi Nuclear Energy on this application will advance our shared goal of ensuring the UK’s energy security and building a more connected and sustainable world.”
An international development
In Canada, Ontario Power Generation recently selected this small reactor model for potential deployment as early as 2028. The Canadian company was submitting its application for a building permit for the Darlington site. GEH also concluded agreements with companies in Poland, the Czech Republic and the United States.
In the U.S., several companies are also embracing Hitachi’s SMR. Tennessee Valley Authority selects BWRX-300 technology for potential deployment. A building permit application is being developed for the Clinch River site.
Finally, in Poland, ORLEN Synthos Green Energy is submitting an application to the National Atomic Energy Agency for evaluation of the BWRX-300. The Polish company plans to begin deploying a fleet of small modular reactors by the end of the decade. Indeed, this small reactor reduces the costs of operation compared to other nuclear technologies.
