Former Nottinghamshire Coal Plant Site Targeted for Major Nuclear Energy Development

Plans have been put forward to transform the former Cottam power station site into one of the UK's largest small modular reactor (SMR) developments, potentially bringing a new era of energy generation to Nottinghamshire.

US-based nuclear technology company Holtec International has joined forces with EDF to propose the construction of up to four advanced reactors on the site of the former coal-fired power station, which ceased operations in 2019.

The project has been submitted to government under the UK's Advanced Nuclear Framework and could generate around 1.3GW of low-carbon electricity — enough to power hundreds of thousands of homes while making use of infrastructure already in place at the former power station.

The partners have also agreed preliminary terms for a joint venture that would oversee the project's development, with the aim of attracting private investment and accelerating delivery.

If approved, the scheme would represent one of the most significant privately-backed SMR projects currently proposed in Britain.

Developers believe Cottam offers a strong location due to its established grid connections, industrial heritage and existing energy infrastructure.

The proposal centres around Holtec's SMR-300 reactor technology, a design that recently completed the UK's Generic Design Assessment process, providing regulatory confidence in its safety, security and environmental performance.

The Nottinghamshire project would build on experience gained from Holtec's first SMR deployment in the United States, where twin reactors are currently progressing through the licensing process in Michigan. Lessons learned from that project are expected to inform the design and delivery of the Cottam development.

Beyond electricity generation, the project could deliver wider economic benefits. Holtec is exploring the possibility of establishing a UK manufacturing facility to support reactor production, creating a domestic supply chain and supporting skilled jobs in the nuclear sector.

Supporters of the scheme argue that it would help advance the government's ambitions to expand nuclear power generation while bringing new investment to an area long associated with Britain's coal industry.

EDF UK Chief Executive Simone Rossi said the proposal would contribute to the country's future energy security while supporting the regeneration of a region that played a major role in powering the nation during the coal era.

Holtec President Dr Rick Springman described the submission as a significant step forward for both the project and the wider deployment of advanced nuclear technology in the UK.

The government's response to the proposal will be closely watched by the energy sector, as interest continues to grow in small modular reactors as a potential solution to future electricity demand and net-zero targets.