GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy: Pioneering Advanced Nuclear Solutions
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) is a global leader in nuclear reactor technology, fuel, and services, formed in 2007 as a strategic alliance between General Electric and Hitachi. With headquarters in Wilmington, North Carolina, GEH leverages GE’s extensive reactor design legacy and Hitachi’s expertise in advanced modular construction to deliver innovative, reliable, and safe nuclear solutions worldwide.
Technological Leadership and Reactor Portfolio
GEH has played a foundational role in the nuclear industry, engineering and constructing more than 80 nuclear power plants globally, representing over 70 GW of installed capacity.
The company’s portfolio includes large-scale boiling water reactors (BWRs) such as the Advanced Boiling Water Reactor (ABWR) and the Economic Simplified Boiling Water Reactor (ESBWR), both recognized for their safety and operational efficiency.
GEH is at the forefront of small modular reactor (SMR) development with the BWRX-300, a 300 MW water-cooled reactor based on the proven ESBWR design. The BWRX-300 is designed for simplified construction, rapid deployment, and cost-effectiveness, aiming to be the lowest-risk and most economical SMR on the market.
The company is also advancing Generation IV technology with the PRISM sodium-cooled fast reactor, which offers enhanced safety, flexibility, and the potential to reduce radioactive waste toxicity.
Innovation and Global Impact
GEH’s reactors are deployed worldwide, with a strong track record in North America, Europe, and Asia. Its technologies support decarbonization efforts by providing reliable, carbon-free electricity.
The company is actively involved in international partnerships, such as its collaboration with TerraPower to develop the Natrium reactor, which integrates molten salt energy storage for greater grid flexibility.
GEH’s Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF) joint venture manufactures nuclear fuel in the U.S., Japan, and Spain, supporting a diverse global fleet.
Commitment to Safety and Sustainability
Operational safety, plant performance, and life extension are central to GEH’s service philosophy, with a focus on dose reduction, long-term asset management, and outage management for its customers.
New reactor designs incorporate advanced passive safety features and lessons learned from past industry challenges, including Fukushima, to ensure robust protection against extreme events.
GEH’s innovations are geared toward reducing investment risk, providing long-term stable power, and minimizing radioactive waste, supporting the clean energy transition.
Industry Reputation and Future Outlook
GEH is recognized for its technological leadership, reliability, and ability to deliver projects efficiently. Its BWRX-300 SMR is positioned as a game-changer for the future of nuclear power, with several projects in development in North America and Europe.
The company continues to invest in R&D and international collaboration, aiming to expand its impact as demand for advanced nuclear solutions grows in the global push for decarbonization.
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy combines decades of engineering excellence with a forward-looking approach to nuclear innovation. Its diverse reactor portfolio, strong safety culture, and commitment to affordable, carbon-free power make GEH a key player in the next generation of global nuclear energy.