1. NIA applies for justification decision for Newcleo’s Lead Fast Reactor for clean, firm, and flexible power production.
2. Lead-cooled fast reactor design aims to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety compared to pressurized systems.
3. Government funds X-Energy and Cavendish Nuclear for plans to build 40 advanced modular reactors that could generate 3.2GW of electricity.
The Nuclear Industry Association (NIA) has applied for a justification decision for British nuclear company Newcleo’s Lead Fast Reactor. The LFR-AS-200, the first new nuclear design in almost a decade, aims to provide clean, firm, and flexible power, with robust safety measures in place. Using lead as a coolant, the reactor can operate at high temperatures and achieve inherent safety, increasing efficiency and reducing costs.
The decision process for the new nuclear technology evaluates potential benefits and risks, paving the way for future regulatory processes. This application marks the UK’s first-ever justification of an advanced nuclear technology, emphasizing the government’s support for clean power and nuclear innovation. The NIA aims to engage with the government and the public throughout this process and anticipates more applications for new nuclear designs in the future.
In a separate development, the UK government has granted funds to X-Energy and Cavendish Nuclear to advance their plans for advanced modular reactors (AMRs). These AMRs have the potential to generate up to 3.2GW of electricity, contributing significantly to the UK’s goals of achieving a zero-emissions power grid. This investment reflects a commitment to exploring innovative nuclear technologies to meet energy demands sustainably.