Secretary of State for Wales Visits Nuclear Futures Institute at M-SParc

The Nuclear Futures Institute was pleased to take part in a visit from the Secretary of State for Wales, The Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, to Bangor University’s experimental research facilities at M-SParc in Gaerwen, Anglesey.

The visit included a tour of two of our major rigs:
THOR (Thermal Hydraulics Open Access Rig) and BULLET (Bangor University Lead Loop for Erosion Testing).
THOR is used to explore fluid dynamics and thermal behaviour in nuclear reactor systems—what we call the \”plumbing\” of the reactor—while BULLET supports materials testing in flowing lead to help develop the components needed for future lead-cooled reactors.

These technologies are part of wider efforts to enable high-temperature reactors that could provide industrial process heat—particularly for steelmaking—and drive clean hydrogen production. Both are vital to decarbonising heavy industry and achieving Net Zero.

During the visit, Prof. Michael Rushton, Dr. Walter Villanueva, and Dr. Charlotte Baxter spoke with the Secretary of State about the Institute’s work. The discussion touched on the impact of our research not just in terms of clean energy, but also in developing the skills and workforce needed to deliver these technologies.

“Our research is about more than solving engineering challenges,” said Prof. Rushton.
“It’s about ensuring the UK has the expertise and capacity to lead the clean energy transition—particularly in areas where innovation can deliver real industrial impact.”

The visit highlighted the unique contribution that North Wales, Bangor University, and M-SParc are making to the future of low-carbon energy and skills in the UK.