Mott MacDonald partners with KEPCO for large-scale nuclear project in UK

Mott MacDonald, a global leader in engineering, management, and development consultancy, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with KEPCO Engineering & Construction Company Inc. (KEPCO E&C), a premier engineering, procurement, and construction company based in Korea. This strategic partnership aims to explore the potential construction of a large-scale nuclear project in the United Kingdom.

Collaboration to Enhance UK’s Nuclear Capacity

The MOU, signed in London, outlines Mott MacDonald’s role in supporting KEPCO E&C with regulatory licensing, permitting, and site development for the nuclear new build program. The collaboration was announced during a state visit by the President of the Republic of Korea, His Excellency Yoon Suk Yeol, to the UK, which also saw several formal trade deals between the two countries.

Expertise and Innovation in Nuclear Energy

James Harris, Chair and Chief Executive of Mott MacDonald, highlighted the significance of this project in achieving the UK’s goal of 24GW nuclear capacity by 2050. He stressed the synergy of Mott MacDonald’s extensive experience in major energy infrastructure and KEPCO E&C’s cutting-edge nuclear technology. Sung-Arm KIM, President and CEO of KEPCO E&C, emphasized the importance of collaboration for entering the UK market and expediting the nuclear power plant construction project.

KEPCO E&C and Mott MacDonald: A History of Success

Both companies bring a wealth of experience to this partnership. KEPCO E&C, a subsidiary of Korea Electric Power Corporation, has been a significant player in nuclear power plant design and construction since 1975. Mott MacDonald, with over 50 years of experience in the UK nuclear industry, offers expertise in regulatory licensing and permitting. The two companies are already collaborating on the $20BN Barakah nuclear power station project in the United Arab Emirates, which is set to meet 25% of the Emirates’ electricity needs.

Ongoing Collaboration and Future Prospects

Following the MOU signing, a ‘UK-Korea Business Forum’ was held at Mansion House, London, where Mott MacDonald’s James Taylor discussed the benefits of third-party collaboration in energy, transport, and water sectors.