Gwyndod supply chain mobilised to deliver UK’s first SMRs

More than 400 suppliers from across North Wales, the UK and the international nuclear industry came together on Ynys Môn as Rolls-Royce SMR and Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) moved forward with plans to deliver the UK’s first small modular reactors at Gwyndod.

The ‘Delivering Together’ conference, held at Coleg Menai’s Llangefni Campus, brought businesses face-to-face with the joint Gwyndod delivery team. It marked an important step in mobilising the supply chain and building the industrial capability needed to deliver this flagship project.

Over two days, delegates heard about the opportunities from the programme, the capabilities and standards required and how businesses can prepare to become part of the supply chain. SMEs also received tailored guidance on how to engage with the wider Gwyndod project supply chain.

Rolls-Royce SMR and GBE-N delivered presentations and shared practical guidance to help businesses of all sizes engage with the programme. Suppliers heard about the capabilities needed and how to work with the programme’s delivery partners, including through dedicated meet-the-buyer sessions. 

Rolls-Royce SMR and GBE-N have an ambition to deliver 70% of the content for the Gwyndod project through UK based companies - creating and sustaining thousands of jobs locally and across the whole of the UK. More than 300 apprentices are expected to be supported during construction, with an ambition to fill opportunities locally wherever possible.

Minister for Energy, Michael Shanks MP, said: “Our golden age of nuclear will create thousands of skilled jobs, attract billions of pounds of investment, and help drive down bills over time.

“Gwyndod’s small modular reactors will create new opportunities for a generation of young people across North Wales, supporting growth through the UK supply chain, and delivering clean, homegrown nuclear power for the whole of Britain.”