Rolls-Royce's small modular reactor (SMR) has cleared the second step in the UK's independent nuclear regulators' Generic Design Assessment (GDA).

The GDA process critically evaluates new nuclear power plant designs proposed for deployment in the UK.

It ensures that the designs meet safety, security and environmental protection requirements throughout their lifecycle, from construction to decommissioning.

Rolls-Royce's SMR now moves into the third and final phase.

Rolls-Royce SMR's progression to Step 3, the detailed assessment, marks a significant home advantage as it is set to become the first new nuclear power station designed and constructed in the UK in over a generation.

Each factory-built nuclear power station is designed to generate affordable, low-carbon electricity sufficient to power one million homes for 60 years.

The Rolls-Royce SMR is a part of the Great British Nuclear SMR technology selection process, which is currently underway.

Rolls-Royce SMR’s safety and regulatory affairs director Helena Perry stated: “The completion of Step 2 of the GDA is the most important milestone to date in advancing deployment of Rolls-Royce SMRs in the UK.

“We have built fantastic momentum, and the team will move directly into Step 3 of this rigorous independent assessment of our technology – ideally positioning us to deliver low-carbon nuclear power and support the UK transition to net zero.”

In May 2024, Rolls-Royce partnered with the University of Sheffield to create a new manufacturing and testing facility in South Yorkshire, UK.

The Rolls-Royce SMR development facility will be located at the university's Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre's (AMRC) Factory 2050.