Institution responds to the publication of the Policy Exchange's "Small Modular Reactors" report

Dr Jenifer Baxter, Head of Engineering at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said in response to the publication of the Policy Exchange’s Small Modular Reactors report:

“This report from Policy Exchange demonstrates the continuing interest in developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). There is the potential for first of a kind demonstration sites throughout the UK at existing and decommissioned nuclear sites.  As we make preparations to leave the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom Treaty) SMRs could provide the UK with significant opportunities to secure the country’s future nuclear industry post-Brexit.

“The UK is making preparations to deliver a new Nuclear Safeguards Bill, but in order to ensure we maintain our position as leaders in nuclear engineering it is vital that new nuclear co-operation agreements, trade agreements and an Association with the EU on research activities are secured.  

“Pushing ahead with the commercialisation of SMRs would enable the UK energy and manufacturing sectors to collaborate creating a world leading environment of new nuclear developments supporting low carbon generation and the growth in interconnected engineering skills.”

Notes to Editors

• For interview requests and queries contact the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Press Office on 020 7973 1261 or email media@imeche.org.
• The Institution of Mechanical Engineers was established in 1847 and has some of the world’s greatest engineers in its history books. It is one of the fastest growing professional engineering institutions. Headquartered in London, we have operations around the world and over 120,000 members in more than 140 countries working at the heart of the most important and dynamic industries such as the automotive, rail, aerospace, medical, power and construction industries.