How the Nuclear Sector in the North West is Powering the UK’s Future
How the Nuclear Sector in the North West is Powering the UK’s Future
The North West of England has long been a cornerstone of the UK’s industrial prowess, and today, it stands as the heart of the nation’s nuclear industry. This guest blog from Rachel O’Donnell, NWBLT member and Chair of the Northern Nuclear Alliance reflects on the sector’s historical importance, and its role in the future success of the region as part of Nuclear Week in Parliament.
As the UK races to achieve its net-zero targets and transition to a low-carbon economy, the North West’s nuclear sector is more vital than ever. With unmatched expertise, an extensive supply chain, and a booming economy, the region plays an irreplaceable role in shaping the future of energy, jobs, and innovation.
Vital for Employment and Growth
The North West has the highest concentration of nuclear expertise in the UK, with over 29,000 direct jobs in the sector and a staggering 140,000 roles supported indirectly through the supply chain. These are not just jobs—they are highly skilled, well-paid positions that contribute significantly to the regional economy. Civil nuclear workers in the North West are twice as productive as the national average, generating an impressive £102,000 in gross value added (GVA) per worker.
In 2024 alone, the nuclear sector contributed £5 billion in direct spending and £4.9 billion in GVA to the North West’s economy. With a projected annual growth rate of 8.34%, the industry has the potential to deliver over £15 billion to the regional economy by 2030, accompanied by a 49% increase in employment. These figures underscore the sector’s transformative potential, not only for the North West but for the entire UK.
A Hub for Innovation
If Silicon Valley is synonymous with technology, then the North West is its nuclear equivalent. The region hosts 14 international reactor vendors, spanning large-scale reactors, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), and even nuclear fusion projects. This concentration of innovation is supported by 178 businesses and regional offices delivering world-leading engineering, scientific services, and manufacturing capabilities.
Central to this ecosystem is the Birchwood Park Nuclear Hub in Warrington, home to over 7,000 nuclear specialists from more than 30 organizations. It stands as the UK’s leading centre for nuclear engineering and innovation, driving advancements that will shape the global energy landscape.
The region is also a hub for research and development, hosting nearly 50% of the UK’s nuclear innovation activities. Institutions such as the National Nuclear Laboratory, the Dalton Nuclear Institute, the North West Nuclear Arc, and the Northern Nuclear Alliance, of which I am proud to Chair, foster collaboration across academia, industry, and government, ensuring that the region remains a beacon of innovation.
Meeting the Challenges of Decarbonization
The North West is at the forefront of addressing the UK’s energy and decarbonization challenges. With a forecasted demand of 32 to 48 TWh of low-carbon hydrogen by 2050, the region’s nuclear capabilities are crucial for meeting this need. By leveraging nuclear-generated electricity and heat, the North West could produce over 8.1 GWe of clean electricity and 20 GWth of reliable heat, enough to surpass its hydrogen production targets.
The deployment of SMRs and AMRs could revolutionize industrial decarbonization, enabling clean energy solutions for sectors like manufacturing, shipping, and aviation. Such developments align with the UK’s hydrogen ambitions and secure the region’s role as a leader in sustainable energy.
The Future
As the UK faces a critical juncture in its energy transition, the North West’s nuclear industry offers a roadmap for sustainable growth and energy security. With its unmatched expertise, robust supply chain, and commitment to innovation, the region is poised to lead the UK into a new era of clean energy.
The benefits of the nuclear industry extend far beyond the energy sector. Investments in SMR and AMR technologies could bring £9.5 billion to the North West and create 11,000 new jobs at peak construction. This growth will also support over 150 new apprenticeships, along with 700 long-term, highly skilled roles, helping to secure the future talent pipeline that is so vital to the industry.
Working together with the NWBLT, the Northern Nuclear Alliance will continue to make the case that “Net Zero Needs Nuclear” and champion the wealth of nuclear capability, capacity and expertise in our region. The importance of the North West’s nuclear sector cannot be overstated and should not be taken for granted. It is not just an economic powerhouse; it is a cornerstone of the UK’s net-zero ambitions and a beacon of hope for a sustainable future. By investing in this vital industry, the North West is not just powering the UK—it is leading the charge towards a brighter, cleaner tomorrow.