Shearwater, NuScale join hands for 3-GW nuclear-wind hybrid in Wales

UK-based firm Shearwater Energy Ltd recently announced that it will partner with US small modular reactor (SMR) developer NuScale Power LLC in a 3-GW offshore wind-plus-nuclear energy project in North Wales.

The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to study opportunities in the UK for hybrid energy projects combining SMR and offshore wind, and clean hydrogen production for the transport sector. Their first project is planned to be in Wylfa on Anglesey. Power generation there could start as early as 2027.

“Combining low-carbon generating technologies enables us to achieve similar performance characteristics to large thermal plants without the high cost, long construction time and environmental legacy,” Shearwater CEO Simon Forster said.

Apart from providing its technology for the Wylfa project, NuScale will also support Shearwater in the development, including by conducting project-specific engineering, planning, and licensing activities for the SMR part of the scheme. Following an assessment of the UK supply chain, the Us firm has concluded the local content in the nuclear part of the project could surpass 75%.

Shearwater has submitted an outline proposal to the British Government and the governments of Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland for its hybrid project.

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