UK-US Sign Deals to Accelerate Advanced Nuclear Energy Expansion

During President Trump's state visit to the UK, the United States and the United Kingdom are set to sign a landmark Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy to accelerate nuclear power development and cooperation. This partnership will streamline safety reviews and licensing processes, reducing project approval times from three to four years down to about two. Major commercial deals were announced, including a project by X-Energy and Centrica to build up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, expected to generate power for up to 1.5 million homes and create thousands of jobs. Additional projects involve Holtec, EDF, and Tritax developing data centers powered by small modular reactors at former coal sites, and other collaborations aimed at energy security and reducing dependence on Russian nuclear material. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that this partnership will not only power homes but also boost economic growth, jobs, and clean energy ambitions, marking a "golden age" of nuclear energy for both nations. The agreements underscore a shared commitment to energy security, technological innovation, and economic revitalization in former industrial regions.