Nuclear pioneers X-energy and investor Centrica have outlined the next steps for deploying the UK’s first Advanced Modular Reactor power station in Hartlepool, a move described as "the biggest deal in Hartlepool’s history".
The companies announced a Joint Development Agreement to deploy the UK's first AMRs, with Hartlepool as the preferred location for the first project, which is expected to power 1.5 million homes and create thousands of skilled jobs.
Alistair Black, senior director and UK market lead at X-energy, said: "We’re at the start of major development for Hartlepool, regional economic growth and the UK’s energy security.
"Our agreement with Centrica puts us in the ideal position to assess the site in detail and move into development.
"We want to do this in partnership with the local community and leverage the region’s nuclear expertise and infrastructure to deploy the UK’s first AMR power station."
The Xe-100 reactor is part of a wider plan for up to 6 GW of advanced nuclear capacity across the UK, which could power more than nine million homes.
Denis O’Sullivan, Development Director at Centrica Power, said: "Centrica is committed to securing a resilient, low-carbon energy system for the UK, and Hartlepool is the ideal location to pioneer this advanced nuclear technology.
"Delivering this new power station will not only secure a stable, clean energy source but also create thousands of high-quality, skilled jobs for decades to come.
"We look forward to working closely with EDF, local partners and others to ensure this project delivers maximum benefit to the community."
An event at Hartlepool College of Further Education followed the announcement, which also hosted a supply chain conference with X-energy last year.
The location highlights the importance of education and training as part of the project’s long-term success.
Gary Riches, vice principal at Hartlepool College of Further Education, said: "Hartlepool College of Further Education is thrilled to be hosting a second X-energy event after the supply chain conference last year.
"It further cements our commitment to supporting this exciting development.
"We’re ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce, equipping local people with the skills and expertise required to thrive in this industry.
"By working together, we can unlock new opportunities and drive growth in our region."
He said: "This is the biggest deal in Hartlepool’s history and a pivotal moment for Britain’s clean energy future.
"The partnership between X-energy and Centrica puts our town at the forefront of advanced nuclear innovation, bringing thousands of high-quality jobs, billions in economic value, and reliable, low-carbon power for generations to come.
"I’m proud that Hartlepool will lead the way in building the next era of British energy."
Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said the project is a vote of confidence in the region.
He said: "X-Energy and Centrica’s commitment to Hartlepool is a huge vote of confidence in the skills and expertise of our workforce, and shows that our region’s rich history and decades of experience in nuclear make it the best place in the country to develop new nuclear."
Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said the plans will transform the area.
She said: "This is truly a game-changing moment for Hartlepool – one of the most significant investments in our town’s history.
"The decision to bring the UK’s first advanced modular reactor power station here is not just a vote of confidence in Hartlepool, it’s a bold signal that we are leading the way in nuclear energy innovation.
"This project will create thousands of high-quality jobs, inject over £12 billion into the local economy, and power 1.5 million homes – all from right here in Hartlepool.
"We are proud, excited and ready to seize this opportunity as this project progresses."
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