The UK government has announced its plans for a new nuclear power plant, Sizewell C, located alongside the existing Sizewell B plant, and a small modular reactor (SMR) programme, which will support up to 70,000 jobs and generate electricity for at least 60 years.
Key Benefits of Sizewell C
- Will support 70,000 jobs, including 7,900 in Suffolk
- Expected to generate electricity for at least 60 years
- Estimated cost of £20bn, kept down by replicating the design and operation of Hinkley Point C
- Will provide a safe and resilient energy supply for millions of homes
According to the energy secretary, Ed Miliband, the government’s investment in Sizewell C is necessary to deliver a “golden age of clean energy abundance” and protect family finances, take back control of energy, and tackle the climate crisis.
Small Modular Reactors: A New Era of Nuclear Energy
Rolls-Royce SMR’s selection as preferred bidder to build the UK’s first small modular reactors follows a two-year competition to select nuclear technology for deployment in Britain.
- Part of the government’s Industrial Strategy, the programme is pledged to receive over £2.5bn
- Potentially supporting up to 3,000 new skilled jobs
- Great British Energy – Nuclear will partner with Rolls-Royce SMR to develop the SMRs
- Expected to sign contracts with Rolls-Royce SMR later this year
- Will form a development company thereafter
Professor Fiona Rayment OBE, President of the Nuclear Institute, said: “The funding for Sizewell C will drive the delivery of large-scale, clean energy, while investment in SMRs positions the UK as a global leader in innovative nuclear technology.”
Addressing Concerns and Building Confidence
While some may be concerned about the cost of nuclear projects, the government’s investment in Sizewell C and the SMR programme is expected to create a sustainable future for the UK.
“We will not accept the status quo of failing to invest in the future and energy insecurity for our country,” said energy secretary, Ed Miliband. “We need new nuclear to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance, because that is the only way to protect family finances, take back control of our energy, and tackle the climate crisis.”
Sam White, managing director of natural resources at Costain, commented: “This nationally significant infrastructure project will provide a safe and resilient energy supply for millions of homes, creating a sustainable future for the UK.”
Global Leadership in Nuclear Energy
The UK government’s commitment to nuclear energy is aimed at positioning the country as a global leader in innovative nuclear technology.
Professor Fiona Rayment OBE added: “The government is also right to recognise that pace of delivery matters. We are at a critical moment.
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