The Czech Republic and the United Kingdom are expanding their collaboration in the energy sector. A new agreement strengthens cooperation in the field of nuclear energy, particularly focusing on small modular reactors (SMRs) and joint industrial projects.
At a meeting in London on Monday, representatives from both countries signed a new memorandum of understanding, officially endorsed by Prime Ministers Petr Fiala and Keir Starmer, among others. The aim is to significantly enhance cooperation in the development, construction and operation of nuclear power plants, including small modular reactors.
The document builds on an agreement signed in November 2023 and is intended to support a more sustainable and secure energy supply for both countries, reducing dependence on Russian raw materials. In addition to reactor construction, the cooperation also includes research, training, and industrial partnerships.
A key element of the future collaboration is the use of British SMR technology. Last year, the Czech Republic selected Rolls-Royce SMR reactor modules – a technology that both sides consider among the most advanced in the world. The first small modular reactor in the Czech Republic is planned for the Temelín site from the mid-2030s. Other sites, including Tušimice in northern Bohemia, are currently under review.
“Nuclear energy is currently experiencing a renaissance – and we want to play an active role in this,” said Prime Minister Petr Fiala. “I am particularly pleased about the close cooperation between ČEZ and Rolls-Royce. This collaboration will not only enhance energy security but also create new jobs – in both the Czech Republic and the United Kingdom.”
ČEZ Acquires 20 Per Cent Stake in Rolls-Royce SMR
The partnership is also progressing economically: Czech energy provider ČEZ acquired a stake of around 20 per cent in British SMR developer Rolls-Royce this year, becoming a strategic minority shareholder.
“The choice of Rolls-Royce SMR is a strong signal for us,” explained ČEZ CEO Daniel Beneš. “It shows that we are investing in a technology that is internationally recognised and offers great potential – including for the Czech Republic.”
Focus on Training and Innovation
The new memorandum also includes a comprehensive education and research component. Joint study programmes, specialist exchanges, and the promotion of universities and innovation centres are planned. Rolls-Royce SMR is also considering establishing a manufacturing facility in the Czech Republic.
A Rolls-Royce SMR-class reactor is expected to generate around 470 megawatts of electricity – enough to supply approximately one million households for at least 60 years. In addition to electricity generation, SMRs could also serve as future heat sources – for example in Tušimice (Ústecký kraj), where they are intended to replace existing coal-fired power plants.
