UK first in Europe to invest £196 million in next generation of nuclear fuel

UK to build first high-tech nuclear fuel facility in Europe to outpace Russia in the global market and create hundreds of jobs to improve energy security at home and abroad

With a commitment of £196 million allocated to Urenco for the construction of a uranium enrichment facility, the UK is charting a course towards self-reliance in nuclear fuel production. This move not only spells the end of Russia’s monopoly on HALEU production but also bolsters the nation’s energy security strategy. 

Located in Cheshire, this state-of-the-art facility is set to create 400 highly-skilled jobs, fostering economic growth and solidifying the UK’s position as a global leader in nuclear fuel production. Announced alongside a competition for up to £600 million in contracts to construct the world’s premier commercially viable fusion power station prototype, the UK is positioning itself as a leader in nuclear innovation. 

The UK was the first country in the world to legislate for commercial fusion regulation, giving companies the confidence to invest here in the UK. New simpler planning measures will provide certainty to industry and strengthen the UK as a competitive location for companies to invest – putting the nation on the front foot before the technology is ready to be deployed.

Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, said:

“The wider future of British nuclear remains a critical national endeavour –  guaranteeing nuclear and energy security, and reducing energy bills for Brits.”

Zara Hodgson, Director of the Dalton Institute, said:

“This is the biggest single investment in UK nuclear fuel production capability in decades, and it is especially welcome as it will accelerate the supply of the next generation of fuels that are vital for this new net zero nuclear era. “

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