Great British Nuclear (GBN) has issued a procurement notice seeking up to two Owner's Engineers (OEs) to support its Small Modular Reactor (SMR) programme in the UK.

The OEs will provide independent technical assurance and oversight to facilitate the deployment of first-of-a-kind nuclear technology, aiming to reach Final Investment Decisions for up to two SMR projects. The total estimated contract value is GBP 600 million (US$ 808 million) (excluding VAT), assuming two OE contracts of up to GBP 300 million (US$ 404 million) each. The envisaged duration is 14 years, from 26 March 2026 to 26 March 2040, though the exact completion date will be determined based on the outcome of the SMR Technology Partner procurement. 

The selection will occur in two stages. Initially, tenderers will respond to a Procurement Specific Questionnaire (PSQ) to assess their eligibility, including economic and financial standing, and potential conflicts of interest. Successful respondents will then be invited to submit detailed tenders, which will be evaluated based on technical, commercial, and social value criteria. Prospective OEs must demonstrate capabilities across various technical areas, including Core Design Authority, Safety Case, Civil Engineering, Commissioning, Cyber Security, Decommissioning, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Protection, Mechanical Engineering, Radiological Protection, Reactor Core Physics, and more. Programme capabilities required include Planning and Scheduling, Cost Estimating and Management, Risk Management, Scope Management, Change Management, and experience with NEC Contracts. GBN encourages participation from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), suggesting they can engage through supply chains, joint ventures, special purpose vehicles, or consortia.

The tender notice is expected to be published on 2 June 2025, with submissions accepted until 19 September 2025. A decision on the contract awards is anticipated by 12 March 2026.