Rolls-Royce signs £1.2m simulation tech contract

Rolls-Royce has enlisted a firm to develop a power station simulator as it continues to mature the design of its mini nuclear power station technology.

Rolls-Royce SMR, which is developing Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology, has called on GSE Solutions to develop the simulator, which will play a key role in the firm’s programme to develop, verify and validate the performance and control systems of its unique ‘factory-built’ nuclear power plant.

David Dodd, Rolls-Royce SMR’s engineering director, said: “Commissioning a simulation and test platform is another stride towards deploying the first Rolls-Royce SMR power plant.

“The work with GSE is part of our ‘digital-first’ methodology and our truly modular approach to developing new nuclear power – a reliable source of clean, affordable energy for the UK and the rest of the world.”

In a recent update, the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) confirmed that Rolls-Royce SMR is on track to complete Step 2 of Generic Design Assessment this summer – with the intention of moving straight into the third and final step.

Rolls-Royce SMR said this progress through the assessment by the nuclear industry’s independent regulators (the ONR, Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales) confirms its position as being “significantly ahead” of any other SMR design in Europe.