February 26, 2026 - 171 views
The Welsh Government has pledged to ensure Wales is ready to seize “every opportunity” arising from modern nuclear development at Wylfa, as fresh momentum builds behind plans for new generation at the Anglesey site.
Speaking at a Nuclear Industry Association event in Cardiff, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans said the Government has long supported new nuclear at Wylfa, describing it as both a major low-carbon infrastructure project and a long-term industrial opportunity for North Wales.
The event, supported by the Wales Nuclear Forum and sponsored by Rolls-Royce SMR, highlighted what industry leaders say is a pivotal year for the UK’s civil nuclear sector. Rolls-Royce SMR is designing what is intended to become the UK’s first fleet of small modular reactors, with Wylfa identified as a preferred site.
Ms Evans said Wales should not only host nuclear generation but also play a central role in building, maintaining and supplying it “for decades to come”.
Wylfa previously housed the Magnox nuclear power station, which generated electricity for more than four decades before ceasing operations in 2015. The site has since been widely regarded by industry experts as one of the most suitable locations in the UK for new nuclear development due to its grid connections, established workforce base and community familiarity with the sector.
Small modular reactors, or SMRs, are designed to be built in factories and assembled on site, reducing construction times and potentially lowering costs compared with traditional large-scale nuclear plants. Supporters argue they could play a key role in delivering reliable low-carbon electricity as the UK works towards net zero targets.
During her speech, the Cabinet Secretary also revealed that the Welsh Government is preparing a proposal for Rolls-Royce SMR to develop a modular manufacturing facility in Deeside, Flintshire. She said an SMR factory in Deeside would anchor a repeatable build programme and support a long-term supply chain.
Deeside is already recognised as a major advanced manufacturing cluster in North Wales, home to significant aerospace, automotive and energy businesses, with strong road, rail and port links. The area has also been designated within a £160 million investment zone, aimed at attracting high-value industries and skilled jobs.
If progressed, the combination of reactor deployment at Wylfa and manufacturing capability in Deeside could represent one of the most significant industrial developments in North Wales in a generation, with potential benefits for employment, apprenticeships and regional supply chains.
The Welsh Government has consistently argued that nuclear energy, alongside renewables, has a role to play in Wales’ future energy mix. Any development at Wylfa would still be subject to UK Government approval, regulatory assessment and planning processes.
