Siemens Energy to supply turbines for Rolls-Royce SMR

Friday, 28 February 2025

Rolls-Royce SMR of the UK has selected Germany-based energy technology company Siemens Energy as its global turbine systems partner for its small modular reactor. The final contract, detailing all specifics, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Siemens Energy to supply turbines for Rolls-Royce SMR
The signing of the agreement (Image: Rolls-Royce SMR)

Siemens Energy said the partnership agreement is expected to lead to the exclusive supply of conventional technology for future small modular reactors (SMRs). Under this agreement, the company is to be the sole supplier of steam turbines, generators, and other auxiliary systems for Rolls-Royce SMR's planned nuclear power plants.

"Forming an enduring partnership to deliver this key package of work significantly de-risks the programme and strengthens our ability to deliver our SMR," Rolls-Royce SMR said. "This agreement will leverage Siemens Energy UK's existing manufacturing base, and their global presence will ensure we are able to deliver in multiple countries."

Siemens Energy's solutions for nuclear power plants include steam turbines and generators with outputs ranging from 20 MW to 1900 MW, as well as operational control technology and control systems.

"Although Siemens Energy is not directly involved in developing the reactors, its decades of experience in the conventional nuclear sector makes it a natural supplier for such power plants," the company said. "Siemens Energy's portfolio includes steam turbines, generators, and operational instrumentation and control systems that monitor the entire power plant."

"The turbine systems are a vital part of the Rolls-Royce SMR power plant, and we are delighted to be working with Siemens Energy, a global leader in energy systems who have significant experience and a proven track record in nuclear steam turbines," said Rolls-Royce SMR CEO Chris Cholerton. "This partnership will unlock UK jobs and a range of manufacturing opportunities and further cements our position as Europe's leading SMR technology. We are delighted that Siemens Energy will support our capability and enhance our ability to deliver a global fleet of Rolls-Royce SMRs."

Karim Amin, Siemens Energy Executive Board Member, added: "We are currently experiencing a global renaissance of nuclear energy. Numerous countries are turning to nuclear technology to produce zero emission electricity, and small modular reactors will play a key role in this. Siemens Energy brings decades of experience in turbo machinery for power generation applications, while Rolls-Royce SMR has the necessary critical expertise in nuclear applications. This perfect symbiosis enables us to jointly shape the future of energy supply. We are very pleased to be working with Rolls-Royce SMR on this exciting project."

The Rolls-Royce SMR is a 470 MWe design based on a small pressurised water reactor. It will provide consistent baseload generation for at least 60 years. 90% of the SMR - measuring about 16 metres by 4 metres - will be built in factory conditions, limiting on-site activity primarily to assembly of pre-fabricated, pre-tested, modules which significantly reduces project risk and has the potential to drastically shorten build schedules.

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