UK Energy - Nuclear joins World Association of Nuclear Operators

Great British Energy - Nuclear (GBE-N) has joined the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) as a new member of its fifth membership category. This membership category is open to organizations worldwide that are planning, constructing, or preparing to operate new nuclear facilities.

By joining WANO, GBE-N will gain access to the association's global professional network, operational experience feedback, and tailored support for new nuclear projects. WANO can provide assistance in the construction, commissioning, operational readiness, startup, and long-term safe and reliable operation of new nuclear plants.

GBE-N, a UK government-owned entity, is advancing plans to deploy Rolls-Royce Small Modular Reactors in Gwynedd, North Wales (formerly known as Wylfa).

To align with GBE-N's development arrangements, WANO has developed a draft engagement plan that includes structured participation activities, with an initial focus on 2026 and 2027. This roadmap aims to provide targeted support for GBE-N as it advances the future deployment and operation of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) units.

Over the past three years, several new nuclear organizations have joined WANO under the fifth membership category, including SaskPower Corporation of Canada, Sizewell C Limited of the UK, Orlen Synthos Green Energy of Poland, Elektrarna Dukovany II of the Czech Republic, Duwayhin Nuclear Energy Company of Saudi Arabia, and Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe Sp. z o.o. of Poland.