Gathering of Suppliers at Ynys Môn
Over 400 suppliers from North Wales, the wider UK, and the global nuclear sector convened on Ynys Môn as Rolls-Royce SMR and Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) advanced their plans to establish the UK’s inaugural small modular reactors at Gwyndod.
The ‘Delivering Together’ conference, hosted at Coleg Menai’s Llangefni Campus, served as a platform for businesses to engage directly with the Gwyndod project delivery team. This event was a vital progression in mobilising the supply chain and enhancing the industrial capabilities necessary for this significant initiative.
Spanning two days, attendees were informed about the opportunities presented by the programme, the required capabilities and standards, and how businesses can prepare to integrate into the supply chain. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) received specialised guidance on how to interact with the broader Gwyndod project supply network.
Insights and Opportunities Shared
Representatives from Rolls-Royce SMR and GBE-N provided presentations and practical advice aimed at assisting businesses of all sizes in participating in the programme. Suppliers were briefed on the competencies needed and how to collaborate with the programme’s delivery partners, including dedicated sessions designed for buyer engagement.
Both Rolls-Royce SMR and GBE-N aspire to source 70% of the content for the Gwyndod project from UK-based companies, thereby creating and sustaining thousands of jobs locally and throughout the UK. More than 300 apprentices are anticipated to receive support during the construction phase, with a commitment to prioritising local talent whenever feasible.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks MP remarked, “Our golden age of nuclear will create thousands of skilled jobs, attract billions in investment, and help reduce energy bills over time. The small modular reactors at Gwyndod will open new avenues for a generation of young people across North Wales, bolstering growth through the UK supply chain and delivering clean, domestically-produced nuclear power for all of Britain.”
Commitment to Local Economic Growth
Adam Price, the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, stated, “The Welsh Government is dedicated to maximising the economic, employment, and supply chain benefits of Gwyndod for Wales. Our goal extends beyond hosting the project; we aim to secure enduring value through skilled jobs, opportunities for Welsh businesses, and stronger local supply chains.
“Wales possesses an experienced and highly skilled workforce with expertise across professional, technical, and trade roles. This foundation enables Welsh businesses and workers to play a significant role in delivering what represents a new chapter for the British nuclear industry with the first SMR build.”
Simon Roddy, CEO of Great British Energy – Nuclear, expressed enthusiasm about the Gwyndod project, noting the impressive interest from the supply chain in learning how to get involved. He articulated the value of hosting such an event on Anglesey, highlighting the attendance of ministers from both the UK and Welsh Governments as a testament to their commitment to collaborative delivery on this project.
Transforming Nuclear Power Delivery
Chris Cholerton, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce SMR, emphasised the transformative potential of the Gwyndod project, stating, “This initiative offers us the chance to revolutionise how nuclear power is delivered. Our repeatable, factory-based approach will enhance certainty and mitigate delivery risks, while establishing a national industrial capability that supports a fleet of Rolls-Royce SMRs and presents significant export opportunities, starting with contracts already secured in Czechia and Sweden.
“This event has unified the organisations and expertise driving this ambition, focusing on the principle of Delivering Together. We are now energising the Gwyndod supply chain and forging lasting partnerships that will bring our plans to fruition.”
In conclusion, Rolls-Royce SMR and GBE-N share a collective vision for Gwyndod to provide clean, affordable energy for future generations while reshaping UK industry and creating enduring opportunities for communities in North Wales and across the UK.