UK-US nuclear deal promises £12bn investment for the North East
Hartlepool power station is at the heart of plans to increase and speed up cross-Atlantic commercial ties for advanced nuclear energy, announced ahead of President Trump’s state visit this week.
Up to 12 nuclear reactors are set to be built on the site, followed by an £11bn plan for mini-reactor-powered data centres at the former Cottam power station in Nottinghamshire, and a micro-modular plant at the London Gateway port.
The £12bn North East scheme will create around 2,500 jobs and generate enough power for 1.5m homes.
The Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy is designed to reduce the time it takes to license nuclear reactors by half, from around four years down to two, by cutting red tape and aligning safety standards between the two countries.
X-Energy and Centrica will own the reactors, which will cement nuclear energy at the centre of Britain’s focus on green energy.
Hartlepool power station is currently owned by EDF Energy and is due to cease operating in March 2027.
Ed Miliband, energy secretary said: “For nearly 50 years, Hartlepool nuclear power plant has been a powerhouse for the North East – providing energy security, fuelling the economy, and supporting jobs for generations of hard-working British families.
“With the plant nearing the end of its life, this deal between Centrica and X-Energy could secure the next 50 years of clean, homegrown energy in the North East and marks the dawn of a new golden age for British nuclear.
“By teaming up to build 12 advanced modular reactors, Centrica and X-Energy intend to put Hartlepool at the cutting edge of nuclear innovation.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This landmark UK-US nuclear partnership is not just about powering our homes, it’s about powering our economy, our communities, and our ambition.
“These major commitments set us well on course to a golden age of nuclear that will drive down household bills in the long run, while delivering thousands of good jobs in the short term.”
