ABB and Rolls-Royce SMR have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore collaboration on the development and deployment of small modular reactor (SMR) technology for low-carbon electricity generation. The agreement will explore how ABB’s automation, electrification, instrumentation and communication technologies can support Rolls-Royce SMR’s plans to develop a fleet of standardized, factory-built nuclear power units.
Each Rolls-Royce SMR unit is designed to generate 470 MW of low-carbon electricity, with the capacity to power around one million homes in the UK for up to 60 years. The company is developing a standardized approach to nuclear power projects aimed at reducing project risks, improving delivery certainty and supporting faster deployment.
Under the MoU, ABB will assess opportunities to contribute its technologies and engineering expertise across its three business areas to support the scale-up of SMR projects. Rolls-Royce SMR has already started site-specific design and delivery work for the UK’s first small modular reactors. The initial project is expected to include three units in North Wales and support thousands of jobs while strengthening local supply chains.
The company is also working with ÄŒEZ on plans to deploy SMRs at TemelÃn in the Czech Republic, with potential additional units at TuÅ¡imice and DÄ›tmarovice. In Sweden, Rolls-Royce SMR has also been selected by Videberg Kraft to deliver three SMRs on the Värö Peninsula.
The collaboration will be developed through ABB’s UK operations, headquartered in Warrington. ABB also has a strong presence in Sweden and the Czech Republic. Stacy O’Brien, Head of Procurement Enterprise at Rolls-Royce SMR, said the company’s factory-built approach is designed to improve cost and schedule certainty for nuclear projects. “ABB has a strong track record in delivering automation and electrification solutions for major energy infrastructure projects. This agreement gives us an opportunity to explore how we can further strengthen our delivery capabilities,” she said.
According to the International Energy Agency, small modular reactors could play an important role in meeting future energy needs. Under current policy settings, global SMR capacity could reach 40 GW by 2050. With stronger policy support, streamlined regulations and successful delivery of new designs, this could increase to 120 GW.
Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB’s Energy Industries division, said partnerships will be important in expanding reliable and affordable low-carbon power. “Modern nuclear technologies can play an important role in meeting growing energy demand. Collaboration across the energy value chain will be essential to bring these technologies to commercial scale,” he said.
At the heart of each Rolls-Royce SMR is a pressurized water reactor based on technology already used in hundreds of nuclear facilities worldwide. The design includes multiple safety, redundancy and backup systems. ABB is a global technology company focused on electrification and automation. The company helps industries improve performance, productivity and efficiency while supporting a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.
With more than 140 years of experience, ABB combines engineering expertise with digital technologies to develop solutions that help customers operate more efficiently and competitively. Through its technology and innovation, ABB supports industries in improving productivity, reducing resource use and advancing sustainable operations.
ABB operates under its brand promise, ‘Engineered to Outrun’, reflecting its focus on helping customers achieve higher levels of performance and efficiency. The company has around 110,000 employees worldwide and operates across multiple industries and markets. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the symbol ABBN and on Nasdaq Stockholm under the symbol ABB.
