Japan Atomic Energy Agency, UK National Nuclear Laboratory, and Rolls-Royce sign trilateral memorandums of cooperation on High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors and coated particle fuel development
Type: Partnership · Technology: Nuclear · Country: Japan, United Kingdom · Announced: 2026-06-15
The Japan Atomic Energy Agency, the UK's National Nuclear Laboratory, and Rolls-Royce signed trilateral memorandums of cooperation to advance High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors (HTGRs) and the coated particle fuel required to power them. This partnership aims to leverage expertise from all three organizations to accelerate the development of next-generation nuclear reactor technology. HTGRs are designed for high efficiency and enhanced safety, with potential applications in both electricity generation and industrial heat processes. Rolls-Royce, a UK-based engineering firm, brings industrial and commercialization capabilities, while the Japanese and UK national laboratories contribute deep technical and research expertise. The collaboration follows prior bilateral agreements between Japan and the UK on nuclear energy cooperation, signaling a strategic alignment in decarbonization efforts through advanced nuclear technologies.
Counterparties
- UK National Nuclear Laboratory (Partner)
- Japan Atomic Energy Agency (Partner)
- Rolls-Royce (Partner)