Immersive Robotics Facility Launched to Accelerate UK Decommissioning

The Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Collaboration facility, known as RAICo1, opened in Whitehaven, Cumbria in 2022 as the first network of robotics and artificial intelligence collaboration hubs across the United Kingdom. The facility integrates remotely operated robotics systems with immersive data visualisation in a single interactive environment designed to support decommissioning operations at Sellafield and comparable sites.

Operational Capability

The 360-degree visual environment accommodates up to ten users and allows engineers, operators and project teams to step inside digital versions of facilities and operational scenarios before work begins on site. Teams planning work in restricted areas can walk routes virtually, with live imagery from robotic platforms displayed as conditions change. The facility provides a dedicated space for collaborative operations planning, enabling multidisciplinary teams to test approaches and respond quickly to emerging issues.

  • Expected to reduce time workers spend in hazardous environments by up to 40%
  • Enables remote operations and monitoring through robotics and live data streaming
  • Offers ability to test technology in environments mirroring those on the Sellafield site, including gloveboxes and water tanks

Development and Partners

The facility was developed by engineering services and nuclear company AtkinsRéalis in partnership with Sellafield Ltd and immersive technology specialist Igloo Vision Ltd. The project builds on expertise gained through AtkinsRéalis' Lava Lab network and the delivery of Sellafield Ltd's immersive facility at Hinton House in Risley, Cheshire. RAICo1 will be used by Sellafield Ltd, supply chain partners and academia to develop technology needed for decommissioning operations.

Strategic Value

The facility addresses the complexity of decommissioning some of the United Kingdom's most challenging nuclear facilities by enabling teams to visualise challenges and work through solutions collaboratively before activities begin on site. By bringing immersive technology and robotics together in one location, the capability creates opportunities to reduce risk and improve efficiency in decommissioning programmes. The design meets operational needs while allowing flexibility for future expansion and innovation.

Webinar \| Nuclear Insurance in India After the SHANTI Act: A Forward-Looking Perspective

Webinar \| Nuclear Insurance in India After the SHANTI Act: A Forward-Looking Perspective

📅 25 August 2026
🕐 12:30 CET / 16:00 IST
💻 Online
⏱ 35 minutes, including live Q&A

India’s nuclear sector is entering a new phase — bringing renewed attention to liability, risk and insurance.

On 25 August, NucFinder will host a focused online webinar with Prabha Chokhani, Head of Broking and Placements – India, Willis, a WTW business.

With more than 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, Prabha will share her perspective on how India’s nuclear insurance landscape may evolve after the SHANTI Act — and what this could mean for the wider nuclear industry.

👉 Register via the LinkedIn Event.

Nuclear Fuel Management Software Addresses Operator Efficiency Challenges

Nuclear operators face mounting pressure to enhance performance and reduce operational complexity as demand for reliable clean energy grows. Fuel management represents a critical operational domain where inefficiencies can cascade across reactor scheduling, safety protocols, and material accountability.

Intelligent automation platforms are emerging as key enablers for utilities seeking to streamline fuel-handling processes. These solutions address multiple operational touchpoints simultaneously, from initial shuffle planning through final cask loading and material tracking. By consolidating disparate workflows into unified systems, operators can reduce manual intervention points and associated error risks.

The software landscape for nuclear fuel management continues to evolve, with providers developing integrated tools that combine design optimization, pool management, and material tracking capabilities. Such platforms enable operators to model complex scenarios, validate loading patterns, and maintain comprehensive audit trails—all essential for regulatory compliance and operational transparency.

  • Fuel shuffle optimization reduces scheduling conflicts and extends reactor availability
  • Integrated pool management systems improve space utilization and safety oversight
  • Automated cask loading workflows enhance material accountability and traceability
  • Consolidated platforms reduce manual data entry and associated compliance risks

Operational Impact

Streamlined fuel management directly supports utility objectives around cost control and risk mitigation. By automating routine calculations and validations, operators can redirect technical resources toward strategic planning and regulatory engagement. Reduced cycle times for fuel movements also minimize reactor downtime and associated revenue impacts.

Material tracking automation strengthens the nuclear security posture by providing real-time visibility into fuel location and status. This capability supports both internal operational controls and external regulatory reporting requirements, reducing administrative burden while improving data accuracy.

  • Enhanced operational efficiency through workflow automation
  • Improved regulatory compliance through comprehensive audit documentation
  • Reduced manual errors in complex fuel-handling calculations
  • Better resource allocation for technical and management staff