Ugandan Business Dynasty and GE-Hitachi Partner to Develop Mini-Nuclear Reactors in UK

The Madhvani family, dubbed the "Rockefellers of Uganda," is partnering with General Electric to introduce mini-nuclear reactors in Britain. They plan to use GE-Hitachi's BWRX-300 SMRs, with a capacity of 300 megawatts each, aiming for a total of one gigawatt. The initiative, called "Project Quasar," aims to demonstrate the potential of SMRs globally, starting with deployment before the end of this decade. The UK was chosen due to its open market and reputation as a nuclear deployment leader.

The Madhvani family, often referred to as the "Rockefellers of Uganda," is making waves in the global nuclear energy sector through their collaboration with General Electric (GE) [1]. This innovative partnership aims to introduce mini-nuclear reactors in Britain, with a total capacity of one gigawatt.

The chosen technology for this groundbreaking initiative is GE Hitachi's BWRX-300 Small Modular Reactor (SMR), a 300-megawatt carbon-free power source [1]. With a simplified, cost-effective design and proven fuel, the BWRX-300 is an ideal solution for demonstrating the potential of SMRs worldwide [1].

Project Quasar, as this venture is named, was specifically chosen to debut in the UK due to its open market and reputation as a nuclear deployment leader [1]. The British government has been actively promoting nuclear energy as part of its efforts to decarbonize the power generation industry [2].

GE Hitachi's BWRX-300 offers numerous advantages over traditional nuclear reactors. It is a compact, sustainable power source that operates at much higher capacity factors than renewable energy sources, ensuring a reliable and always available power supply [1]. The innovative design of the BWRX-300 also requires less concrete and steel for construction, making it a cost-effective solution [1].

The BWRX-300's proven fuel, licensed and qualified facilities in the U.S. and Europe, and world-class safety features contribute to its reputation as a reliable and safe choice for power generation [1]. In addition, the BWRX-300 can be deployed for various applications, including hydrogen production, desalination, and district heating, making it a versatile and valuable addition to the global energy landscape [1].

Project Quasar's goal is to demonstrate the potential of SMRs globally, starting with deployment before the end of this decade [1]. With the UK chosen as the first location, the Madhvani family and General Electric are set to make a significant impact on the future of nuclear energy.

References:
[1] GEvernova. (n.d.). BWRX-300 Small Modular Reactor. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from https://www.gevernova.com/nuclear/carbon-free-power/bwrx-300-small-modular-reactor
[2] BBC News. (2022, November 23). UK to build new nuclear reactors in £20bn deal. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-63571757