UK Eases Nuclear Planning Rules to Accelerate Small Modular Reactor Deployment

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces reforms to expand nuclear energy infrastructure and address energy security with a focus on small modular reactors.

The UK government will allow nuclear reactors to be built beyond the eight previously designated sites, expanding potential locations for new plants.
Small modular reactors (SMRs), seen as quicker and cheaper to deploy than traditional nuclear plants, are central to the country’s nuclear energy push.
Planning reforms include removing project expiry dates, creating a Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce, and streamlining approval processes to reduce delays and costs.
The government aims to build the first SMR by 2032, though no commercial SMRs are yet operational globally, and the technology remains in development.
Environmental groups have criticized the plan, citing concerns over nuclear waste and costs, while industry leaders and unions welcome the potential for job creation and energy security.