System operator launches SMR consultation

A consultation has been launched on the first project to be considered for designation under the system operator’s reformed connections process.

The process is a route for projects that do not fully align with the UK Government’s Clean Power 2030 Plan but may still be important for Britain’s future energy system.

NESO said the flexibility provided by EDF’s proposed Cottam Small Modular Reactor project could play an important role in strengthening Britain’s future energy security, generating low carbon power, and making use of existing industrial energy sites.

The four small modular reactors on the site of the former coal-fired power station at Cottam in Nottinghamshire would generate around 1.3GW of electricity, and would be among the first SMR developments in Great Britain.