Centrica has announced a new joint development agreement with US firm, X-Energy, to deploy the group’s nuclear advanced modular reactors (AMRs) in the UK.

The pair have identified Hartlepool as the preferred first site for a planned UK fleet of up to six gigawatts.

The agreement represents the first stage in a new alliance between the UK and US which Centrica has estimated could ultimately mobilise £40bn in economic value to bring nuclear power to thousands of homes and industries across the UK, as well as significant work for the domestic and global supply chain.

Centrica will provide the initial project capital for development and is targeting full-scale activities in 2026. Subject to regulatory approval, the first electricity generation would be expected in the mid-2030s.

The two companies are also already in discussions with additional potential equity partners, as well as with global engineering and construction companies, with the goal of establishing a UK-based development company to develop future projects.

Centrica CEO, Chris O’Shea, said: “Our partnership with X-energy marks a bold step forward in delivering advanced nuclear technology that is not only scalable and secure, but also vital to clean industry and powering homes.

“The Xe-100 fleet will help build a resilient energy system that supports national security, affordability, and sustainability. From Sizewell C to Hartlepool, we are backing Britain’s energy future – and building it.”

Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net-Zero, Ed Miliband, commented that the partnership “demonstrates the transformative potential” of US and UK businesses joining forces.

“By working with the US, we will reap the benefits of this golden age of nuclear, powering British homes with clean, homegrown energy, delivering well-paid skilled jobs and getting energy bills down for good,” Miliband added.

Centrica has estimated that a 12-unit Xe-100 deployment at Hartlepool could add up to 960 megawatts of new capacity, enough clean power for 1.5 million homes and over £12bn in lifetime economic value.

It would be developed at a site adjacent to Hartlepool’s existing nuclear power station, which is currently scheduled to cease generating electricity in 2028. The site had already been designated for new nuclear projects under the Government’s National Policy Statement.

CEO of X-energy, J. Clay Sell, commented: “Our partnership with Centrica represents a commitment to bring X-energy's industry-leading advanced nuclear technology to the UK at scale. Together, we aim to build a fleet that has the ability to reliably deliver clean power, strengthen energy security, and grow the trans-Atlantic economy for decades to come.

“We believe Hartlepool is the right place to begin this journey, with an established industry and a base of professionals and services who can help drive the next generation of nuclear forward.”

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