Wylfa Confirmed as Site for UK’s First Small Modular Reactor

Wylfa Confirmed as Site for UK’s First Small Modular Reactor – A Game-Changer for Jobs, Skills, and Business Growth

The UK Government has confirmed that Wylfa on Anglesey will host the nation’s first Small Modular Reactor (SMR) – a landmark decision that positions North Wales at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. This £2.5 billion investment is set to become the most significant industrial development in the region for a generation, delivering up to 3,000 jobs during peak construction and hundreds of long-term operational roles.

Driving Economic Growth and Energy Security

The SMR project, led by Great British Energy-Nuclear and designed by Rolls-Royce SMR, will generate enough low-carbon electricity to power three million homes, supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions and energy security. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with the first power delivered by the mid-2030s.

Cllr Mark Pritchard, Chair of Ambition North Wales, said:

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for North Wales. Wylfa has long been recognised as a suitable site for major nuclear investment given its strategic location, robust grid connectivity and extensive preparatory work – so to have confirmation on its development is extremely positive news. The site is uniquely positioned to deliver clean, reliable energy while creating thousands of jobs and revitalising communities. Ambition North Wales is therefore proud to support the project, and we’d urge policymakers and investors to set the programme of work in motion as soon as possible, for the benefit of Wales and the wider UK.”

Skills and Workforce Development – A Regional Priority

Beyond its energy benefits, Wylfa’s SMR represents a transformative opportunity for skills development and job creation across North Wales. The scale of this project demands a highly skilled workforce, from engineers and technicians to project managers and supply chain specialists. Regional partners are already working to ensure training pathways align with these needs, creating opportunities for apprenticeships, upskilling, and advanced technical qualifications.

Sian Lloyd Roberts, North Wales Regional Skills Manager, emphasised the importance of preparing the workforce:

“The confirmation of Wylfa as the site for the UK’s first Small Modular Reactor is a landmark moment for North Wales. This project will not only deliver clean, secure energy but also create thousands of skilled jobs and long-term career opportunities. Our priority now is to ensure the region has the right training pathways in place – from apprenticeships to advanced technical skills – so local people and businesses can fully benefit from this investment. By working together, we can make Wylfa a catalyst for economic growth and a hub for low-carbon innovation.”

Voices from the Region

David Roberts, Chair of the North Wales Regional Skills Partnership, added:

“This is excellent news for North Wales, which is firmly on the road to becoming an energy powerhouse. With SMR nuclear technology joining the Morlais tidal development and our existing offshore wind capacity, the region is building a diverse and resilient energy mix. This progress is great news for the regional economy and will create long-term career opportunities in clean energy and advanced technologies.”

Dr Debbie Jones, Low Carbon Innovation Manager at M-SParc and Chair of the RSP Energy & Advanced Manufacturing Cluster Group; 

“The announcement that Wylfa will host the UK’s first Rolls-Royce SMRs is a defining moment, but it’s a marathon, not a sprint – the race has only just begun. Our focus now is making sure North Wales is ready to maximise this opportunity: building supply chains, preparing skilled workers, and fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and communities. This isn’t just about energy generation; it’s about resilience, innovation, and ensuring the benefits are felt locally for decades to come.”

Supply Chain Opportunities for Local Businesses

The Wylfa SMR development will require a vast network of suppliers, creating opportunities for construction firms, engineering companies, logistics providers, and specialist manufacturers across North Wales. Local SMEs will have the chance to secure contracts in areas such as civil engineering, electrical systems, fabrication, and environmental services. This ripple effect will strengthen regional supply chains and stimulate growth in sectors aligned with clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

A Skills-Driven Future

The Wylfa SMR project is more than an energy milestone – it’s a catalyst for regional prosperity, workforce development, and innovation. By investing in skills today and supporting local businesses, North Wales can ensure that communities are ready to seize the opportunities of tomorrow.