US AND BRITAIN TO FINALIZE MULTIPLE MAJOR NUCLEAR POWER DEALS DURING TRUMP’S STATE VISIT. (PHOTO).

 US and Britain to finalize multiple major nuclear power deals during Trump’s state visit

The U.S. and U.K. are set to sign a series of major nuclear energy deals during President Donald Trump’s state visit to Britain this week, aiming to launch what leaders are calling a “golden age” of nuclear power. The agreements include plans to construct up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, northeast England, and to develop data centers powered by small modular reactors (SMRs) in Nottinghamshire.

The partnership is expected to create thousands of jobs, accelerate the construction of new nuclear facilities, and attract billions in private investment. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the initiative as a step toward placing both nations “at the forefront of global innovation and investment” in nuclear technology, particularly as it supports energy-intensive data centers needed for artificial intelligence development.

X-Energy, a U.S. firm specializing in advanced nuclear plants, and British Gas owner Centrica said the Hartlepool reactors could supply electricity to up to 1.5 million homes and create around 2,500 jobs, with an estimated economic value of at least £40 billion ($54.25 billion). Meanwhile, U.S.-based Holtec, in partnership with EDF and Tritax, plans to build SMR-powered data centers in Nottinghamshire valued at roughly £11 billion. SMRs are designed to be smaller and lighter than traditional reactors, potentially reducing construction time and costs once commercially deployed.

The deals fall under the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy, which also includes plans to establish the world’s first micro modular nuclear power plant. U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright said the agreements signal a “true nuclear renaissance,” harnessing commercial nuclear power to meet rising energy demand and support AI technology.

While nuclear power advocates highlight its low-carbon benefits and potential to reduce fossil fuel dependence, some environmental groups caution that the industry is costly and may distract from cheaper, cleaner energy alternatives.