Britain has announced plans for its largest nuclear energy expansion in seven decades. 

An ambitious move, spearheaded by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, aims to quadruple the country's nuclear output.

Sunak's administration, echoing the enthusiasm of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, is set to bolster the development of small-scale reactors and introduce a large new reactor. 

Additionally, the government is venturing into uranium fuel production domestically.

“Nuclear is the perfect antidote to the energy challenges facing Britain – it’s green, cheaper in the long term, and will ensure the UK’s energy security,” Sunak said in the ‘Civil Nuclear Roadmap’ launch statement.

This strategy positions Britain alongside nations like France and the USA, turning to nuclear power for reliable, climate-friendly baseload electricity. 

This move has drawn attention in Australia, with shadow energy minister Ted O’Brien urging the country to consider a similar approach.

The British government anticipates nuclear energy supplying up to a quarter of the nation’s electricity by 2050, a fourfold increase to 24 gigawatts. 

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho outlined an investment strategy of securing decisions for 3GW to 7GW every five years from 2030 to 2044.

The government's support extends to small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs), with a selection process for SMR contenders unfolding in the coming months. A new policy includes initiating uranium fuel production and investing in larger reactors.

Britain plans to invest up to £300 million in domestic high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) production, currently monopolised globally by Russia. In addition to SMRs, the government is committed to building a new large nuclear power station, alongside the 3.2GW Sizewell C reactor, which received approval last year. 

The government's involvement in Sizewell C includes a £1.2 billion investment, with an anticipated £20 billion from the private sector by year's end.

Construction of Sizewell C, and the potential new reactor, aligns with Britain's broader energy strategy, balancing the urgency of modern energy demands with long-term planning.

The government's nuclear strategy underscores the need for both large and small-scale reactors. 

Small-scale reactors, typically a fraction of the size of conventional reactors, are gaining traction for their versatility in electricity, heat, or hydrogen production. 

Key players in the SMR sector include EDF, GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy International, and Rolls Royce SMR, targeting operational status by the 2030s.

AMRs, using innovative fuels and coolants, are also on the horizon, with a demonstration plant expected in the next decade.