Date released
23 November 2023
Request number
202310047
Release of information under
Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOIA)
Information requested
- Whether ‘other potential new build co-operation’ might include cooperation with Newcleo to bring their French-piloted MOX production plant to the UK?
- If any related contact with Newcleo on this matter has happened so far?
- If ONR is aware whether Newcleo has submitted any application for GDA assessment for its MOX-powered nuclear reactor as part of the competition being assessed by Great British Nuclear?
Information released
We confirm that under s.1 of the FOIA, we do not hold the information described in your request. However, as part of our duty to provide advice and assistance under s.16 of the FOIA, please find our responses to your questions below.
- Whether ‘other potential new build co-operation’ might include cooperation with Newcleo to bring their French-piloted MOX production plant to the UK?
Decisions on policy for fuel manufacture and reprocessing, and any related cooperation with technology vendors are matters for the government and not ONR. We have had no engagement with Newcleo regarding their MOX production plant.
- If any related contact with Newcleo on this matter has happened so far?
We have had no engagement with Newcleo regarding their MOX production plant.
- If ONR is aware whether Newcleo has submitted any application for GDA assessment for its MOX-powered nuclear reactor as part of the competition being assessed by Great British Nuclear?
Newcleo has not submitted an application as part of the competition being assessed by Great British Nuclear. Furthermore, we are not aware of any plan for a Generic Design Assessment (GDA) of a Newcleo designed reactor. We will only commence a GDA on request from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and we have not received a request in relation to Newcleo.
Exemptions applied
N/A
PIT (Public Interest Test) if applicable
N/A