The global power systems company, Rolls-Royce, has announced plans to collaborate with EDF Energy, the UK business of the French utility group, on nuclear programmes.

These will initially support the construction of four new nuclear power plants in the UK.

The agreement covers engineering and technical support during both the pre and post construction phases.

Lawrie Haynes, President of Rolls-Royce Nuclear, said: "We are very pleased to be working with EDF Energy and this agreement is another step towards the delivery of our civil nuclear strategy.

"With the largest proven nuclear supply chain of any UK company Rolls-Royce is uniquely placed to deliver world-class engineering and manufacturing capability to support the delivery of nuclear power programmes both here and around the world."

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In July 2009, Rolls-Royce announced plans to build a new factory to manufacture assemble and test systems and components for nuclear power stations. The facility will have strong links with the UK government-funded Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre in which Rolls- Royce will be the lead industrial partner.

Humphrey Cadoux-Hudson, Managing Director of EDF Energy's Nuclear New Build business said: "As a country we face a significant energy challenge to keep the lights on, tackle climate change and maintain affordable prices.

"We believe the challenge can be met through greater energy efficiency and the generation of electricity from a diverse range of sources including nuclear and renewables. With the recent combination with British Energy, we are the largest generator of low carbon electricity in Britain.

"We plan to build four new European Pressurised Reactors (EPR) nuclear reactors in the UK at Hinkley Point in Somerset and Sizewell in Suffolk. Subject to the right investment framework being in place we intend to develop 4 EPRs in the UK by 2025 with the first operational by the end of 2017."

(CD/BMcC)