April 13, 2026 - 255 views
Work has officially begun on a landmark new nuclear power station at Wylfa, signalling what ministers are calling a new chapter for both the UK’s energy future and the economy of north Wales.
The UK government has backed the project with a £2.5bn partnership involving Rolls-Royce, paving the way for the construction of three pioneering small modular reactors (SMRs) — the first of their kind in Britain. The development is expected to generate around 8,000 jobs, including 3,000 on Anglesey itself and a further 5,000 across the UK supply chain.
For a site steeped in history, the announcement marks a dramatic revival. Wylfa, first built in the 1960s and operational from 1971, was once a cornerstone of the region’s economy, employing thousands before its final reactor shut down in 2015 after 44 years of service. Since then, it has stood in quiet transition — until now.
The new project promises not just jobs, but long-term energy security. Once complete, the three SMRs are expected to generate enough low-carbon electricity to power the equivalent of around three million homes for more than six decades. Unlike traditional nuclear plants, these reactors will be largely manufactured off-site in modules before being assembled at Wylfa, a process designed to cut costs and speed up delivery.
Tom Greatrex, chief executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, described the moment as “historic,” highlighting the role the development will play in positioning Wales — and the UK — at the forefront of next-generation nuclear technology.
“This is a very special site with unique strengths,” he said, adding that the sector is ready to ensure Britain’s first SMR fleet becomes a global success story.
The project still requires a final investment decision, expected by the end of the decade, with hopes the reactors could be operational in the 2030s following planning and regulatory approvals.
For Ed Miliband, the development represents more than just infrastructure. He called it a “major milestone” in strengthening Britain’s energy independence.
“Our clean energy mission is the only route to getting off the rollercoaster of fossil fuels,” he said, “and taking back control of our energy future.”
As groundwork begins on Anglesey, there is a growing sense that Wylfa — once a symbol of the UK’s nuclear past — is poised to become a flagship of its clean energy future, bringing jobs, investment and renewed purpose to Ynys Môn for generations to come.
