UK poised to confirm funding for mini nuclear reactors for carbon-free energy

Rolls-Royce-led consortium already has 210m in private backing for plans to build 16 reactors across the country

The government is poised to approve funding for a fleet of Rolls-Royce mini nuclear reactors that the prime minister hopes will help the UK reach his target of zero-carbon electricity by 2035.

A consortium led by the British engineering firm had already secured 210m in backing from private investors for the small modular reactor (SMR) project, a sum that the government is expected to match or better. Confirmation is expected before the spending review on 27 October, according to well-placed sources.