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The UK has taken a significant step forward in its nuclear ambitions, as the government confirms the selection of High-Temperature Gas Reactors (HTGRs) as the chosen technology for its upcoming demonstration programme.
The announcement was made by Greg Hands, speaking at the Nuclear 2021 event hosted by the Nuclear Industry Association in London. Hands stated:
“I’m pleased to announce that we will focus on HTGRs as the technology choice for the programme moving forward.”
This marks an exciting milestone for the UK’s nuclear sector.
The confirmation cements what had already been suggested earlier in the year—that HTGRs would be the government's preferred option. These advanced reactors will now take centre stage in the Advanced Modular Reactor (AMR) Research, Development and Demonstration Programme.
The programme’s objective is to prove the capability and potential of HTGRs through a working demonstration, ideally by the early 2030s. These reactors generate high-temperature heat, which can be used for a variety of purposes including hydrogen production, industrial processes, district heating, and electricity generation.
The ability to support hydrogen and synthetic fuel production brings the added advantage of decarbonising key sectors of the economy—potentially transforming not only industry but also the wider energy grid.
A key benefit of HTGRs is their alignment with the UK’s existing expertise in gas-cooled reactor technology. Many of the skills developed over decades of nuclear experience can be directly transferred to this new wave of modular, advanced designs, helping to retain and repurpose valuable knowledge within the workforce.
This announcement sends a strong signal to both industry and investors: the UK is serious about its nuclear future. Recent months have seen a marked shift in the government’s position on nuclear power. The earlier decision to support Rolls-Royce’s plans for a fleet of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) was a significant move—and now, with this week’s HTGR confirmation, the momentum is clearly building.
Will the UK emerge as a leader in the next generation of nuclear energy?
Time will tell—but the intent is certainly there.
For more information on Government selects HGRT reactor for demonstration talk to Amelec Instruments