Framatome to set up fuel fabrication facility in the UK

Framatome to set up fuel fabrication facility in the UK
by Sophie Jenkins
London, UK (SPX) Nov 30, 2023

Framatome has announced plans to construct a nuclear fuel fabrication facility in the United Kingdom. This initiative is part of the company's broader strategy to scale up its operations in the UK, preparing for the upcoming generation of nuclear reactors. The announcement comes amidst active engagements with the UK Government's Department for Energy Security and Net-Zero (DESNZ) and EDF in the UK.

The process of selecting a site for this facility is currently underway, focusing on existing and former nuclear generation sites. Framatome is set to embark on detailed site justification and pre-licensing studies in 2024, guided by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR). This careful site assessment underscores the strategic importance of the facility in Framatome's expansion plans.

Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome, highlighted the company's long-standing commitment to the UK market, stating, "We have been supporting the UK nuclear power market for over 25 years and it is a focal point of business for Framatome. We remain deeply committed to helping the country meet its net zero targets." He further elaborated on the facility's role in enhancing the UK's energy independence, emphasizing that "This multi-design fuel fabrication facility will help reduce UK reliance on imports and strengthen security of fuel supply through a diverse and resilient supply chain."

The planned facility will focus on manufacturing nuclear fuel for large Pressurized Water Reactors (PWR) and Light Water Small Modular Reactors (SMR), aligning with the UK's recent preselection of six SMR designs and the ongoing construction of EPR reactors at Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C. This aligns with the UK government's commitment to diversify its nuclear fleet and support the wider deployment of SMRs in Europe, aiming to deliver operational reactors by the mid-2030s.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is receiving support from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) in this project. The NDA's involvement is pivotal, as it brings its expertise, resources, and assets to support the government's energy security strategy. Its role in decommissioning the UK's legacy nuclear sites is crucial in making land available for new developments such as Framatome's facility.

Framatome's existing contributions to the UK's nuclear sector include supporting the maintenance and long-term operation of existing plants and participating in the construction of new EPR reactors. The company's expansion is evident in its recent acquisitions of EFINOR and BHR, and its collaboration with EDVANCE UK.

Ralf Gathmann, CEO of Framatome Ltd., underscored the company's growing footprint in the UK, stating, "In line with our ambitious growth objectives, Framatome actively recruits highly skilled employees each year in the UK where we currently employ 300 people. We are proud to work with the UK government to further grow the economy and create jobs - all while helping deliver clean, reliable, home-grown energy."