Centrica and X-energy Advance Nuclear Plans with UK Regulators' GDA Acceptance
News related to:Centrica plc · 2 min read
Centrica and X-energy have taken a significant step forward in their partnership to bring advanced nuclear technology to the United Kingdom. On the one-year anniversary of their agreement, the UK Government has directed regulators to accept X-energy’s Xe-100 Advanced Modular reactor into the Generic Design Assessment (GDA) process. This move marks a crucial milestone in the companies' plans to deploy up to 6 gigawatts (GW) of new nuclear capacity in the UK, potentially through 10 to 20 Xe-100 power stations.
The Xe-100 reactor, developed by X-energy, is a Generation IV advanced Small Modular Reactor (SMR) designed for enhanced safety and reliability. Each reactor unit is engineered to provide 80 megawatts (MW) of electricity or 200 MW of thermal heat for industrial uses. The Xe-100 is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the UK’s energy security and reduce carbon emissions.
Under the partnership, Centrica and X-energy intend to deploy up to 6 GW of new nuclear capacity in the UK. The companies have already engaged a range of specialist firms to commence site studies and planning and consenting activities. They have also collaborated with local bodies in Hartlepool to support workforce development and training, including the launch of a new Nuclear and Electrical Trades Academy.
The Xe-100’s acceptance into the GDA process is expected to take approximately three years and will be administered by the UK Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), the Environment Agency (EA), and Natural Resources Wales. This process will assess the design's acceptability for deployment and operation, paving the way for site-specific licensing and permitting.
The collaboration between the UK regulators and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is expected to benefit the Xe-100’s UK licensing progress. The NRC has reviewed design documentation and safety analyses, which will be transferred into UK design reviews. This expanded collaboration is aimed at driving efficiency and ensuring a strong regulatory foundation for the technology’s deployment.
J. Clay Sell, CEO of X-energy, emphasized the importance of a strong regulatory foundation for the technology’s fleet-scale deployment.
Chris O'Shea, Chief Executive of Centrica, highlighted the strategic importance of advanced nuclear technology for the UK.
Since their initial agreement in September 2025, the companies have carried out important early project activities, including formal Early Engagement with the nuclear regulators and the submission of a proposal for entry into the UK Government's Advanced Nuclear Pipeline. The companies have also engaged a range of specialist firms to commence site studies and planning and consenting activities, and they have collaborated with local bodies in Hartlepool to support workforce development and training.
X-energy’s long-standing investment in the UK market builds on a deep national heritage in gas-cooled reactor technology. The Xe-100 advanced small modular reactor and TRISO-X fuel are designed for enhanced safety and reliability in the delivery of clean energy. The technology is expected to drive enhanced safety, lower costs, faster construction timelines, and scalable deployment when compared with other SMRs and conventional nuclear.
The acceptance of the Xe-100 into the GDA process is a significant step towards the deployment of advanced nuclear technology in the UK. It underscores the commitment of both Centrica and X-energy to deliver a resilient, low-carbon energy system that can power homes and industry for decades to come.