Rolls-Royce SMR and CEZ Group have signed a contract that enables work to start on the Czech Republic’s first Small Modular Reactor (SMR) programme, launching first at the Temelín site in the South Bohemian Region.
This follows a successful programme of geological studies which will allow Rolls-Royce SMR and CEZ Group to jointly develop a site application for small modular reactors at the Temelín nuclear site this year.
Rolls-Royce SMR and CEZ have embarked on a strategic partnership to deploy up to 3 GW of electricity in the Czech Republic. Under this Early Works Contract (EWC), site-specific design work will begin, including preparations for consents, permitting, and licensing, alongside preliminary infrastructure activities already underway at Temelín - home to one of CEZ’s operating nuclear power stations.
Chris Cholerton, Rolls-Royce SMR Chief Executive, said: 'This important contract unlocks a significant programme of work at the Temelín site, which will be delivered alongside our strategic partner and shareholder, CEZ.
With today’s contract signing, and with contractual commitments now in place in both the UK and Czechia, RollsRoyce SMR becomes the only company with multiple contractual commitments to deliver SMR units in Europe.
Czechia brings a strong nuclear legacy and a highly capable industrial base. By strengthening connections between Czech and UK supply chains, we will enable the delivery of our fleet programme. This Europe-first approach will ensure the greatest economic and industrial benefits flow to early adopter countries, including the UK and Czechia.'
Daniel Beneš, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of CEZ, said: 'CEZ’s cooperation with Rolls-Royce SMR offers a unique opportunity for growth and prosperity in the nuclear power industry, including through our participation in the technology’s development. The Czech Republic and Czech industry can utilise and further deepen its traditional nuclear know-how thanks to the small modular reactors project.
We are counting on small modular reactors alongside large nuclear power plants and renewables. The contract between CEZ and Rolls-Royce SMR will ensure the preparation of the design, technical and licensing documentation necessary for the issuance of the necessary permits for the construction of the SMR in Temelín. Equally important is the memorandum of understanding with the government. Government support is essential for such a large project, just as it is for the construction of the new nuclear units at Dukovany. Together, we will address, among other things, the investor model and possible sources of financing.'
The Rt Hon Peter Kyle MP, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, said: 'Thanks to our Modern Industrial Strategy and world leading companies like Rolls Royce SMR, the UK is an ideal partner for delivering the next generation of clean energy.
This partnership highlights how British innovation can strengthen energy security, cut emissions and support high skilled jobs across Europe.'
With CEZ as its partner and shareholder, Rolls-Royce SMR is transforming the way nuclear projects are delivered using proven nuclear technology, modularisation and a ‘factory-built’ approach – reducing delays and minimising the impact on local people and the environment.
To support the programme in Czechia, Rolls-Royce SMR has opened its first Czech office in Prague, to enable successful delivery of the Early Works Contract and accelerate progress towards deploying reliable, clean nuclear power in the country. Each Rolls-Royce SMR power plant will generate enough stable low-carbon electricity to power a million homes for 60+ years.
Source: Rolls Royce SMR
