Claire Hughes MP welcomes landmark Wylfa deal, bringing thousands of jobs and Clean Energy to North Wales
Today, Great British Energy – Nuclear and Rolls-Royce SMR have signed a contract to deliver the UK’s first Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) at Wylfa, Ynys Môn – securing thousands of jobs and a clean energy future for North Wales.
The three-unit project at Wylfa is expected to generate at least 1.4 gigawatts of clean electricity; enough to power the equivalent of three million homes for more than 60 years. At peak construction, the project is anticipated to support around 3,000 skilled jobs locally, with thousands more across the wider UK supply chain.
The announcement reflects the UK Government’s wider mission to invest in clean, homegrown energy while delivering economic renewal in regions that have long powered the UK’s industrial growth.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband described the agreement as a critical step in delivering a new era of nuclear power:
“At a time of global instability, this is a major milestone for Britain’s energy security.
“We are backing a British company to deliver our first small modular reactors – creating a generation of good jobs, driving growth and providing clean, homegrown power for decades to come.
“Our clean energy mission is the only route to getting off the rollercoaster of fossil fuels and take back control of our energy independence.”
Small Modular Reactors represent a new generation of nuclear technology; designed to be more flexible, quicker to build, and more cost-effective than traditional plants. With Wylfa identified as a key site for deployment, and potential for further expansion in the future, the project places North Wales at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy ambitions.
Claire Hughes, MP for Bangor Aberconwy, said:
“This is a huge moment for North Wales and a defining step forward for our communities.
“It is this Government that has committed £2.5 billion over this Parliament to get the project off the ground, alongside a further £600 million through the National Wealth Fund – backing a British company, Rolls-Royce, to deliver it.
“This represents one of the biggest public investments ever made in Wales and reflects a commitment from the Government to our communities here across North Wales.”
The project also represents a significant opportunity for future generations in North Wales. With roles spanning engineering, construction, project management, and digital skills, it is expected to create pathways for local people at all levels, helping to address long-standing challenges around young people leaving the area for work.
Claire Hughes MP added:
“For communities like ours, this investment is truly transformative. Bringing high-quality jobs, long-term opportunities, and renewed confidence in our local economy.
“Wylfa has a proud nuclear heritage, and this project ensures that legacy is not only protected but strengthened for the future.
“At a time of global uncertainty, this is about delivering clean, secure, British energy – and ensuring North Wales is at the heart of that future.”
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East highlights the urgent need for the UK to reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets and accelerate the transition to secure, clean energy. By backing homegrown nuclear technology and attracting additional private investment to support SMR development, the National Wealth Fund is helping to position the UK at the forefront of a growing global industry.
This landmark agreement signals a generational step that will define North Wales – delivering clean, homegrown power, thousands of skilled jobs, and energy security for decades to come.
Promoted by Claire Hughes at House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA. This website is paid for independently by Claire Hughes MP, no public funds have been used in the production of this website.
