Holtec and EDF submitted an official proposal to the UK government to transform a former coal-fired power station into a next-generation nuclear energy hub, marking a key step in advancing Britain’s nuclear program.

The plan is to develop up to four small modular reactors (SMRs) at the former Cottam coal-fired power station in Nottinghamshire.

Holtec’s advanced SMR-300™ will deliver safe, reliable, and carbon-free power. At Cottam, they would provide approximately 1.3 gigawatts of clean, reliable electricity, demonstrating how retired fossil fuel sites can be repurposed rather than developing entirely new locations.

As a significant proposal under the UK’s Advanced Nuclear Framework, the companies aim to combine private investment, proven reactor technology, and existing infrastructure to support Britain’s expanding nuclear energy ambitions.

The companies will bring their respective expertise to the project, with EDF contributing its experience in operating and developing nuclear plants in the UK, and Holtec providing its SMR-300 reactor technology, manufacturing capability, and project development expertise.

“We are delighted to be working with Holtec International on the development of small modular reactors in the UK,” EDF UK Chief Executive Simone Rossi said in a press release.

“The Cottam project supports the UK government’s ambition to expand nuclear capacity and will facilitate significant re-development of a region that has given so much to the UK through its coal heritage.”

Britain’s new nuclear program boost

The Cottam project is planned as a second-of-a-kind deployment of the SMR-300 design, following Holtec’s twin Pioneer units in Michigan, United States.

Holtec noted that the Pioneer project is currently progressing through the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission review process, while pre-construction activities continue at the site. The company said lessons from the U.S. project are expected to support the development of the UK program.

The proposed Cottam development would use existing grid infrastructure at the former coal-fired power station, allowing up to four SMR-300 units to be installed while reducing the need for new transmission connections. The aim is safe, reliable, and carbon-free power.

Holtec said the SMR-300 design has already completed the UK’s Generic Design Assessment (GDA), a regulatory process that evaluates the safety, security, and environmental impact of nuclear reactor designs.

If approved, the project would proceed through the UK’s regulatory and development processes, supported by the planned joint venture between Holtec and EDF.

The proposal also includes signing Heads of Terms between Holtec and EDF to establish a joint venture to advance development of the Cottam project. The companies said this structure will support coordinated delivery of the project through its next stages of planning and development.

A long-standing partnership

Holtec International and EDF said the proposal builds on a long-standing partnership spanning more than three decades.

“Our long-standing partnership with EDF, combined with the opportunity created by the UK’s Advanced Nuclear Framework, provides a strong foundation for advancing SMR-300 deployment at Cottam,” said President of Holtec International, Dr. Rick Springman, in a press release.

“This submission represents an important milestone for the project and for advanced nuclear energy in Great Britain.”

Recommended Articles