Freshfields is advising Rolls-Royce SMR Limited (Rolls-Royce SMR) on its partnership with CEZ Group (CEZ), which includes an c.20% equity investment by CEZ and a strategic partnership to enable the development, construction and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) in the UK and Czech Republic. The proposed transaction strengthens Rolls-Royce SMR’s ability to deploy SMR technology in Europe and globally, and puts CEZ, Rolls-Royce SMR and its existing shareholders at the forefront of SMR deployment. These efforts further support the UK and Europe to reach their ambitious net zero goals and contribute solutions to address the challenges of climate change. Subject to customary regulatory clearances and security assessments, the proposed transaction is expected to close during 2025. The Freshfields team is being led by partners Samira Afrasiabi, Vanessa Jakovich and Nick Jones and senior associate Marc McCaughey. Regulatory advice is being provided by partner Thomas McGrath and senior associate Daniel Wylde. Intellectual property advice is being provided by partner David Brooks and senior associate Ben Cohen. Tax advice is being provided by partner David Haworth