It will probably be another decade before they actually deliver power. But the technology group Rolls-Royce, supported by state aid, is confident in the construction of smaller nuclear power plants.
London (AP) – The British technology group Rolls-Royce wants to develop mini nuclear power plants and thus contribute to the protection of the climate. This was announced by the company, whose eponymous automotive division is now part of BMW, on Tuesday.
Investments of 195 million pounds (about 228 million euros) are planned for the program known as SMR (Small Modular Reactor), according to a statement. In addition, there are funds from a state fund for green energy of 210 million pounds (about 246 million euros).
“With Rolls-Royce SMR technology we have developed a clean energy solution …,” Rolls-Royce boss Warren East said, according to the announcement. The company estimates that the program could create 40,000 new jobs in the UK. The economically remote north of the country should benefit from this in particular. One of the mini-power plants, consisting of about two soccer fields, will produce power for around one million homes, according to the statement. By Rolls-Royce estimates, it will be a decade or so before that happens. While British Finance Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng praised the plans, environmentalists criticized them.
A new conventional nuclear power plant with two reactors is currently under construction in the UK at Hinkley Point. Another is planned. According to the BBC, about a fifth of the electricity generated in the UK currently comes from nuclear power plants.
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