This contract represents a major step towards the Czech Republic adopting nuclear energy. They signed an early works agreement with ČEZ to get this thing rolling. This agreement paves the way for the start of site-specific activities at the Temelín nuclear site, situated in the South Bohemia region. This partnership creates an ambitious goal that both organizations can rally around. They’re equally committed to beating everybody else—the race to build the nation’s first small modular reactor (SMR) by the mid-2030s is on!
The early works agreement includes some notable activities. These involve obtaining the requisite regulatory approvals and licenses, completing environmental impact studies, and carrying out preliminary construction at the Temelín site. It’s this very foundational work that’s so important. Most importantly, it provides a solid blueprint for the continued technological advancement of the region’s SMR innovation pipeline.
At the end of June 2025, Great British Energy – Nuclear nominated Rolls-Royce SMR as the preferred bidder. This funding announcement marks the UK government’s continuing commitment towards the manufacturing of small modular reactors (SMRs). This choice is still subject to final government approvals and continued negotiation of a contract. The collaboration with ČEZ signifies a pivotal moment in expanding Rolls-Royce SMR’s influence in the nuclear energy sector, as it underscores both nations’ commitment to leveraging SMR export opportunities.
Commitment to Clean Energy
Together, they intend to ensure that the Czech Republic has safe and reliable nuclear power as an important source of clean energy. Chris Cholerton, CEO of Rolls-Royce SMR, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:
“This agreement is an important step forward in our partnership with ČEZ, demonstrating our shared ambition to move at pace to deliver reliable, clean nuclear power in the Czech Republic.”
This commitment is in line with the recent pledges by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala. They are both intent on spurring economic development through clean energy innovation.
Tomas Pleskac, who sits on ČEZ’s board and now heads the company’s new energy division. He stressed how important modular reactors are for restarting the Czech economy. He underscored them today as an important opportunity for historic growth. Critically, he underscored their importance in the United States’ accelerating transition to a clean energy economy.
A Vision for Nuclear Energy
The first flite small modular reactor is expected to have an operational lifespan of greater than 60 years. This forward-looking outlook aims to provide long-life energy benefits. It puts both companies at the forefront of nuclear innovation. The partnership formed in early 2025 between Rolls-Royce SMR and ČEZ is an important step towards making this vision a reality.
Pleskač also reiterated that ČEZ is deeply committed to working closely with Rolls-Royce SMR during the construction planning phase. This joint initiative underscores a deep desire to hone the nuclear enterprise in the Czech Republic. Taken together, this effort will greatly increase domestic energy production.
Economic Opportunities Ahead
As for T3 and HNTB, as both companies start this journey, they know regional economic development is at stake. The jobs created and the investment spurred by this initiative will have a profound effect. It will further emphasize the importance of clean energy technology in strengthening local economies. The joint venture demonstrates the continued investment and joint commitment each nation has to large-scale future-proof energy solutions. Jointly, they strive for a healthier and more sustainable world.
