Rolls-Royce nuclear plans could create 6,000 jobs

Rolls-Royce has revealed plans to build a fleet of 16 mini nuclear power stations, which could create 6,000 jobs within the next five years.

The engineering giant, which has its civil aerospace and defence divisions in Derby, is leading a consortium behind the plans, which it said would support the Government’s “levelling up” agenda.

The company said that 80 per cent of the components could be made in factories in the Midlands and the North, then delivered to existing nuclear sites.

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It also believes the plans could deliver a further 34,000 roles within 15 years, most of which would be high value manufacturing jobs.

The power stations would be built using standardised, factory-made components and advanced manufacturing processes, which push down costs.

Rapid assembly of the modules would take place inside a weatherproof canopy at the power station site itself to speed up schedules.

The consortium is now hoping to get a “clear commitment” from the Government for the flat-packed power station project.

It has already handed the coalition £18 million in match funding last year to design the small modular reactors (SMRs).

The consortium now needs to secure a further £217 million, which would also be matched by industry.

The jobs would be created across the joint venture – including manufacturing and assembly, as well as the supply chain that supports the programme and in the companies that will ultimately operate the power stations.

Rolls-Royce’s defence site, in Raynesway, is already home to nuclear expertise, manufacturing reactor cores for Royal Navy submarines.

John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby, said: “The Government is yet to decide on this investment but there is a strong case to do so.

“Rolls-Royce is leading the consortium and, of course, there is much expertise in the city that can be drawn on.

“Any good news for Rolls-Royce is equally good news for Derby and would be incredibly welcome across our wider economy.”