The demand for clean, reliable, and low-carbon energy in London has never been greater and nuclear energy plays a vital role in this transformation. From engineering and reactor design to safety consulting and waste management, nuclear companies in London are helping the UK reach its Net Zero goals.
These firms are not only deeply embedded in national infrastructure projects, but also influence global nuclear advancements through policy, innovation, and consultancy.
Whether you’re a government agency, private energy firm, or tech partner looking for collaboration, knowing the best nuclear companies in London helps you connect with the top-tier providers in this high-stakes industry.
This list features the top 10 nuclear companies in London, each with unique specialties and proven track records in engineering, safety, innovation, or regulation.
Let’s explore the most trusted nuclear energy firms in London and what makes each one stand out in the UK’s civil nuclear landscape.
How to Choose the Right Nuclear Company in London?
Choosing a nuclear company in London requires a careful evaluation of several critical factors. Unlike general engineering or construction firms, nuclear companies must operate under strict regulatory environments.
It’s essential to begin by verifying whether the company is licensed by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), the primary body overseeing nuclear safety in the UK. A valid ONR licence ensures that the company adheres to the highest standards of safety and compliance.
Experience in the UK nuclear sector is equally important. Companies that have contributed to major projects such as Hinkley Point C or Sizewell C often have the required capabilities to handle complex nuclear assignments.
Furthermore, technical capabilities like advanced digital engineering, radiation modelling, and real-time safety monitoring systems reflect a firm’s investment in innovation and reliability.
What Services Do Nuclear Companies in London Typically Offer?
The nuclear sector is broad and highly specialised. London-based nuclear firms usually offer a mix of engineering, research, policy consulting, and regulatory support services.
A common area of service is nuclear engineering, where firms provide full lifecycle project delivery from initial design and feasibility studies to construction and maintenance of nuclear plants or systems.
Another major area is regulatory compliance and safety assurance. These services include risk assessments, independent safety reviews, and licensing support for both civil and defence nuclear projects.
Many London firms are also deeply involved in waste management and decommissioning, where the objective is to safely dismantle old nuclear infrastructure and handle radioactive waste in line with UK environmental laws.
Who Are the Top 10 Nuclear Companies in London?
1. Rolls-Royce SMR – “Powering the Future with Small Modular Reactors”
Rolls-Royce SMR is pioneering a new era of nuclear energy with its compact, cost-efficient Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Based in London, the company is leading the UK’s charge toward decentralised nuclear power.
With extensive engineering experience drawn from its aerospace and defence divisions, Rolls-Royce is designing SMRs capable of generating low-carbon electricity for up to 500,000 homes per unit. Its scalable model makes it attractive for regional power grids, industrial zones, and export to international markets.
Backed by government funding and private capital, Rolls-Royce SMR aims to have its first reactor operational by the early 2030s. The company maintains rigorous safety standards, advanced manufacturing processes, and a commitment to sustainability.
Core Focus
Advanced Modular Reactor Development
Ideal Use
Next-Gen Clean Power Infrastructure
Pricing: Not publicly listed; project-based and scalable
- Website: www.rolls-royce-smr.com
- Phone: +44 20 7222 9020
- Address: 65 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AT
- Email: info@rolls-royce-smr.com
Review: ★★★★★
“A game-changing nuclear solution. Their SMR model is exactly what the future of clean energy needs.”
2. AtkinsRéalis – “Engineering Safety into Every Nuclear Project”
AtkinsRéalis, formerly SNC-Lavalin, operates a leading nuclear engineering division from its London base. The company is involved in almost every stage of the nuclear lifecycle from concept design to decommissioning.
Its team supports major UK infrastructure projects, including Hinkley Point C, and offers consulting on reactor design, regulatory compliance, safety analysis, and digital engineering. With over 70 years of nuclear expertise, AtkinsRéalis is a trusted partner for government bodies and private utilities.
Its multidisciplinary teams collaborate across engineering, safety, and architecture to ensure that nuclear infrastructure is reliable, efficient, and compliant with UK and international regulations.
Key Strength
Lifecycle Nuclear Project Delivery
Recommended For
Engineering & Compliance Consultancy
Pricing: Available on request
- Website: www.atkinsrealis.com
- Phone: +44 20 7121 2121
- Address: Nova North, 11 Bressenden Pl, London SW1E 5BY, United Kingdom
Review: ★★★★☆
“Expertise runs deep here from design to regulation, they cover it all with precision.”
3. Nuvia Limited – “Radiation Safety Redefined”
Nuvia is one of the UK’s top radiation protection and nuclear engineering companies. From its London office, it serves civil nuclear and defence sectors with technical services that include radiation safety, decommissioning, environmental analysis, and waste management.
The company is part of the Soletanche Freyssinet group and brings decades of experience to the UK nuclear landscape. Nuvia plays a crucial role in maintaining radiological safety across facilities and has contributed to large projects including Sellafield and Dounreay.
Its ability to combine field services with regulatory advisory makes it a go-to partner for high-risk nuclear environments.
Primary Capability
Radiation Safety & Monitoring
Best Fit
Decommissioning & Risk Assessment
Pricing: Tailored per project
- Website: www.nuvia.co.uk
- Phone: +44 1925 833333
- Address: 7-10 Adam Street, London WC2N 6AA
- Email: enquiries@nuvia.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Reliable, fast, and technically sound especially with radiation-related assessments.”
4. Jacobs UK Ltd – “Engineering a Safer Nuclear Future”
Jacobs is a global leader in technical services with a strong nuclear presence in London. The company offers end-to-end solutions, including safety assessments, engineering design, project management, and nuclear licensing.
It supports some of the UK’s most critical nuclear programmes and collaborates with EDF, UKAEA, and the Ministry of Defence. Jacobs is known for its innovation in safety protocols and risk management, providing solutions that meet and exceed regulatory demands. Their London office connects global knowledge with local nuclear needs, ensuring complex projects meet time and compliance targets.
Distinctive Skillset
High-Performance Safety Systems
Top Use Case
Nuclear Licensing & Risk Management
Pricing: Based on service scope
- Website: www.jacobs.com
- Phone: +44 20 3980 2000
- Address: Cottons Centre, London SE1 2QG, UK
- Email: info@jacobs.com
Review: ★★★★★
“An ideal choice for regulatory-heavy nuclear projects. Reliable and responsive.”
5. Assystem UK – “Driving Digital Transformation in Nuclear”
Assystem UK provides digital engineering and nuclear project support from its London office. With a legacy in international infrastructure, Assystem is a rising name in the UK’s nuclear market, particularly in digital modelling, systems engineering, and project management.
The company focuses on helping clients reduce cost and risk by implementing advanced simulation and AI-driven safety systems. It also plays a role in the UK’s SMR initiatives and collaborates with EDF and Rolls-Royce.
Their nuclear expertise is backed by a strong digital innovation strategy, making them well-suited for modern infrastructure needs.
Primary Expertise
Digital Engineering Integration
Preferred Use
Modern Nuclear Infrastructure Builds
Pricing: Custom quotations
- Website: www.assystem.com
- Address: 5th Floor, The Yards, 17 Slingsby Pl, London WC2E 9AB, UK
- Email: Contact Form
Review: ★★★★☆
“Brilliant at bringing tech into the traditional nuclear space fast and agile.”
6. Mott MacDonald – “Shaping the Infrastructure of Tomorrow”
Mott MacDonald is a trusted consultancy in nuclear infrastructure development. Its London-based teams deliver on licensing, systems integration, waste planning, and engineering audits for nuclear sites. With decades of experience across energy sectors, Mott MacDonald offers nuclear services grounded in sustainability and compliance.
The firm works closely with regulators and utilities, providing data-driven insights and engineering guidance. Their integrated approach is ideal for complex, multi-phase nuclear developments where coordination and regulation matter most.
Specialisation
Regulatory & Environmental Engineering
Ideal Use Case
Nuclear Infrastructure Strategy
Pricing: Project-based
- Website: www.mottmac.com
- Phone: +44 20 7651 0300
- Address: 10 Fleet Place, London EC4M 7RB
- Email: london@mottmac.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Their understanding of infrastructure and regulation is unmatched. Very collaborative.”
7. Frazer-Nash Consultancy – “Solving the Nuclear Sector’s Toughest Challenges”
Frazer-Nash is known for its systems-thinking approach to engineering challenges. Its nuclear division supports both civil and defence projects, with London acting as a strategic operations base. Services include reactor modelling, systems assurance, nuclear software verification, and cybersecurity.
The consultancy is heavily involved in digital reactor twins and plays an important role in helping clients meet safety case requirements. It’s a preferred name for projects that demand technical depth and niche expertise.
Area of Focus
System-Level Nuclear Engineering
Best Suited For
High-Complexity Technical Problems
Pricing: Available on inquiry
- Website: www.fnc.co.uk
- Phone: +44 (0)333 032 9500
- Address: 5 St John’s Lane, London EC1M 4BH
Review: ★★★★★
“Their ability to break down complex systems into actionable steps is incredible.”
8. EDF Energy – “Powering Millions Across the UK”
EDF is one of the UK’s largest energy providers, with its UK headquarters based in London. The company operates several of the country’s nuclear power stations and is central to projects like Sizewell C and Hinkley Point C. EDF’s London office is key for corporate, planning, and regulatory strategy, while plant operations are handled across the country.
The company is also involved in SMR and low-carbon energy development. With a long-standing commitment to sustainability and nuclear safety, EDF remains one of the most recognisable names in UK energy.
Field of Expertise
Power Generation & Grid Integration
Best Matched For
Large-Scale Nuclear Operations
Pricing: Based on power supply agreements
- Website: www.edfenergy.com
- Phone: +44 333 200 5100
- Address: 90 Whitfield St, London W1T 4EZ
- Email: customer_correspondence@edfenergy.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Big, reliable, and focused on future energy. Strong player in the UK market.”
9. Cavendish Nuclear – “Secure, Safe, Smart Nuclear Solutions”
Cavendish Nuclear, a subsidiary of Babcock International, provides decommissioning, waste management, and nuclear operations support. Its London office handles strategic partnerships, safety assurance, and project bids.
The company is a trusted provider for legacy nuclear site management and has extensive experience in regulatory compliance, risk reduction, and asset optimisation. Cavendish is involved in several government-backed nuclear clean-up projects and works closely with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.
Core Domain
Legacy Site Decommissioning
Best Used For
Radioactive Waste & Clean-Up Projects
Pricing: Custom project pricing
- Website: www.cavendishnuclear.com
- Phone: +44 20 7355 5300
- Address: 33 Wigmore Street, London W1U 1QX
- Email: info@cavendishnuclear.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Experts in decommissioning and safety always on point with documentation and standards.”
10. PA Consulting – “Innovation Meets Energy Policy”
PA Consulting brings a unique blend of policy expertise and nuclear innovation. Based in London, the company supports clients in strategy, innovation, and advanced technology development.
PA works on SMRs, fusion energy policy, and future infrastructure planning for governments and corporations. Unlike traditional nuclear engineers, PA focuses on market transformation, offering insights into energy economics, public-private partnerships, and smart infrastructure. Its broad advisory portfolio makes it a versatile player in energy transformation.
Strategic Focus
Energy Policy & Market Innovation
Great For
Strategic Advisory & Future Planning
Pricing: Consulting rates available upon request
- Website: www.paconsulting.com
- Phone: +44 20 7730 9000
- Address: 10 Bressenden Pl, London SW1E 5DN
- Email: info@paconsulting.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Not your typical nuclear firm their strategic input shaped our entire project.”
What Role Do These Companies Play in the UK Nuclear Industry?
London-based nuclear companies play a vital role in the broader UK energy ecosystem. Their proximity to regulators like the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) and government departments such as the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero allows them to participate directly in policymaking and compliance frameworks.
These companies often serve as key advisers on national energy projects and help shape the direction of nuclear innovation in the country.
What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Nuclear Company?
Hiring a nuclear company comes with high stakes, and making the wrong choice can lead to costly delays or safety risks. So, what should you avoid?
Choosing an unlicensed firm is the biggest red flag. Always confirm that the company is registered with the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR).
Another common mistake is prioritising cost over capability. Low bids often mean limited expertise, fewer safety checks, or poor project management.
Avoid firms with no UK-specific experience. The UK nuclear industry has its own strict compliance standards experience abroad doesn’t always translate.
Many clients also fail to request safety records or incident histories. Without this, you’re in the dark about how the company handles high-risk situations.
Finally, don’t overlook clear communication structures. Know who’s managing your project and how issues will be reported or resolved.
Being aware of these pitfalls helps you hire a company that’s not just qualified but reliable and ready for nuclear-grade responsibility.
What Questions Should You Ask Before Signing a Contract with a Nuclear Firm?
Is the company licensed with the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR)?
This should be the first question you ask. Licensing with the ONR is a legal requirement for operating in the UK’s nuclear sector. It ensures the company meets strict safety, technical, and ethical standards.
Has the company worked on similar nuclear projects in London or across the UK?
Experience matters. Firms familiar with UK nuclear regulations, infrastructure, and site-specific conditions are more likely to deliver compliant and efficient outcomes.
What is the company’s safety track record?
Ask for their safety incident history and internal safety protocols. A zero-incident record is ideal, but more importantly, understand how they respond to and prevent risk.
How does the firm handle unexpected changes or risks during a project?
A reliable nuclear company should have risk mitigation strategies, including contingency planning, real-time monitoring systems, and regulatory reporting processes.
Can the company provide case studies or client references?
Reputable firms will offer detailed examples of past projects and client contacts for validation. This adds transparency and proves credibility.
Who will be responsible for your project internally?
Identify the project manager and core team. Understanding their expertise, availability, and roles ensures smooth communication and accountability throughout the project.
Will any subcontractors be involved in the delivery of services?
If so, ask for details about the subcontractors’ credentials and how quality and safety will be managed across all contributors.
What are the communication and reporting protocols during the project?
Clear and regular updates are crucial in nuclear operations. Confirm how often you’ll receive reports, who your point of contact is, and how issues are escalated.
What Is the Future of Nuclear Companies in London?
The future of London’s nuclear companies looks promising and increasingly innovative. With the UK government committing to major investments in clean energy, nuclear is seen as a reliable, low-carbon solution to support renewable energy intermittency. Companies based in London are well-positioned to lead this transition, especially in the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
London also serves as a strategic hub for fusion energy research, with firms working closely with institutions like Imperial College London and fusion startups such as Tokamak Energy. The city’s firms are also embracing digital transformation, integrating artificial intelligence, cloud-based safety monitoring, and advanced simulation into their operations.
How Do London-Based Firms Compare to Other UK Nuclear Companies?
| Comparison Factor | London-Based Nuclear Companies | Other UK Nuclear Companies (e.g., Cumbria, Bristol) |
| Proximity to Regulators | Close to key decision-makers such as the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, BEIS, and ONR | More remote from government bodies; may rely on intermediaries or regional liaisons |
| Access to Funding | Faster access to government grants, innovation funding, and pilot programmes | Dependent on project-based funding; often tied to specific infrastructure projects |
| Talent Pool | Broad, with access to top London universities and international professionals | Strong but more regionally limited; reliant on local education pipelines |
| Focus Areas | Policy consulting, innovation, regulatory compliance, R&D, and international consulting | Reactor operation, construction, site maintenance, and infrastructure delivery |
| Technology Adoption | Early adopters of emerging tech (e.g., AI, digital twins, SMRs, modular systems) | Gradual adoption, more focused on established processes and engineering |
| Project Types | Strategic planning, consultancy, safety assessment, innovation pilots | Physical plant construction, site support, radioactive material handling |
| Client Base | Government, international agencies, clean tech investors, private energy policy clients | Utility operators, plant owners, and national nuclear infrastructure providers |
| Global Reach | High often involved in EU, US, and Middle East nuclear consultancy and policy | Primarily domestic, with occasional overseas contracts |
| Operational Costs | Higher due to central location, higher overhead, and staff costs | More cost-effective for large-scale labour and logistics-based projects |
| Contribution to UK Nuclear Strategy | Central to innovation, strategic planning, and regulation | Essential for execution, operations, and national infrastructure delivery |
Conclusion
London’s nuclear sector represents the best of both worlds technical precision and policy innovation. The companies based here have proven their ability to navigate complex regulatory environments while also pushing the boundaries of what nuclear technology can achieve.
Whether it’s through the development of advanced reactors, consulting on global energy policy, or training the next generation of nuclear engineers, these firms are shaping the future of clean energy in the UK and beyond.
As the demand for low-carbon energy grows, nuclear companies in London are expected to play an even greater role, helping the nation move toward a secure and sustainable energy future.
FAQs About Nuclear Companies in London
What does a nuclear engineering firm do?
Nuclear engineering firms design, develop, and support the operation of nuclear facilities, ensuring they run safely and meet all regulatory requirements.
Are London’s nuclear companies involved in military work?
While most focus on civil nuclear projects, some may be involved in defence contracts, especially those working with the Ministry of Defence or UK Defence Nuclear Enterprise.
How can I check if a nuclear firm is licensed in the UK?
You can verify a company’s licence through the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) website, which maintains a list of licensed operators and contractors.
Do these companies work on international projects?
Yes, many London nuclear firms operate globally, providing consultancy, engineering, and safety services to clients across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Are apprenticeships available in London’s nuclear sector?
Absolutely. Many companies, including Jacobs and Frazer-Nash, offer graduate schemes, internships, and apprenticeships tailored to engineering, safety, and project management.
Is fusion energy commercially viable yet?
Fusion is still in the research phase, but companies and institutions in London are making significant progress, aiming for viable fusion solutions within the next few decades.
Can nuclear firms in London help with decommissioning projects?
Yes, companies like Cavendish Nuclear and Nuvia specialise in decommissioning services, helping to safely shut down and manage former nuclear facilities.