Fugro and Fermi Development Ltd (Fermi) have entered a strategic partnership to deliver a portfolio of development projects in the UK, suitable for small or advanced modular reactors. The agreement will see the companies select and develop several sites through to final investment decision, helping to deliver 'Ready to Build' nuclear sites that can generate clean energy for the future.
A first for the industry, the approach will see Fugro provide Geo-risk management solutions, including its pioneering GroundIQ®solution, across a diversified portfolio of sites, to support a phased, programmatic approach to site development. This will include desk-top studies, site investigation and consultancy to deliver earlier, faster and better engineering insights and improve project surety.
Speaking at the signing of the agreement at Fugro’s head-office in the Netherlands, James Pateman, Fermi Development’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re excited to be embarking on this strategic partnership with Fugro, bringing their extensive experience to bear from site origination all the way to site operations. This is a fundamental component of our radically simple approach to clean energy development. Fermi already has a pipeline of sites at different points in the process of characterisation and development and are looking forward to accelerating their progress through the partnership.
Rod Eddies, Solution Director Land Site Characterisation at Fugro said: “Enabled by our Geo-risk management solutions, this exciting, industry-first collaboration with Fermi provides the nuclear segment with an opportunity to deliver smarter, proportionate and accelerated site development needed to meet UK energy supply and carbon zero ambitions.”
As the UK’s commitment to nuclear development as a critical source of clean energy strengthens, this partnership will help advance projects, supporting national targets, and reinforcing Fugro’s purpose to together help build a more sustainable future.
