The United Kingdom and the United States have unveiled a series of commercial and government-backed agreements designed to accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear reactors, strengthen regulatory cooperation, and eliminate dependence on Russian nuclear fuel. Branded the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy, the initiative will be formally signed during U.S. President Donald Trump’s state visit to London this week.
A central feature of the package is a new fast-track regulatory pathway that will allow U.K. and U.S. nuclear regulators to work in parallel. The aim is to cut licensing timelines for advanced and small modular reactors (SMRs) to roughly two years, encouraging private investment while helping both countries meet clean-energy goals. Another major element of the partnership is the commitment to phase out Russian nuclear materials from supply chains by 2028.
Several high-profile industry deals anchor the announcement. U.S. reactor developer X-energy and U.K. utility Centrica have signed a joint development agreement to create a national fleet of up to 6 gigawatts of X-energy’s Xe-100 modular reactors. Hartlepool has been identified as the preferred launch site, with reports suggesting the project could expand to as many as 12 units, generating enough power for around 1.5 million homes and creating 2,500 jobs across multiple sites.
Other ventures are focused on innovative applications. Holtec, EDF, and Tritax are planning to establish SMR-powered data centres at the former Cottam coal site in Nottinghamshire, underlining the role of low-carbon energy in powering the digital economy. Another micro-modular project is being considered for London’s Gateway port, showing how compact reactors can provide clean energy for industrial hubs and logistics corridors.
For both governments, the partnership reflects a broader vision of a “golden age of nuclear.” The U.K. is highlighting the potential for jobs, exports, and energy security, while the U.S. views advanced nuclear as vital for powering an AI-driven economy, decarbonising industry, and ensuring reliable grid performance.
Industry leaders have welcomed the initiative. Rolls-Royce noted that cross-border regulatory alignment would help speed up approvals for its U.K. SMR design in the U.S. and pave the way for integrated supply chains.
The announcement comes as part of a larger economic agenda during Trump’s visit, which is expected to include more than $10 billion in agreements across nuclear, technology, and defence. While the projects will still require site approvals, financing, and local engagement, the deal is seen as a powerful market signal that could unlock billions in private investment.
Analysts point out that the emphasis on modular, replicable reactors marks a shift away from single mega-projects. Advanced designs such as the Xe-100 and emerging micro-reactors are being positioned to complement renewable energy, decarbonise industrial processes, and support rapid electrification. The key challenge, experts say, will be in delivery—ensuring financing models, workforce training, grid integration, and community support are in place to turn agreements into reality.
