Rolls-Royce SMR is partnering with the University of Sheffield to launch a new facility to manufacture and test prototype modules for its small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power plants.

The Rolls-Royce SMR Module Development Facility, which will be based in the University of Sheffield AMRC Factory 2050, will produce working prototypes of individual modules that will be assembled into Rolls-Royce SMR power plants.

The initial phase, worth £2.7m, of this £15m deal with the University of Sheffield will see Rolls-Royce produce three prototype modules by the end of this year.

Rolls-Royce SMR is offering a different approach to delivering new nuclear power that is easier to scale and more affordable than building larger nuclear power plants.

It’s an approach that aims to deliver an entirely factory-built nuclear power plant that would be transported as modules and assembled on-site, radically reducing construction activity and making the SMR a commodifiable product.

While unique within the...