The UK government announced a £14.2 billion investment in Sizewell C, indicating a major step forward in UK nuclear ambitions.
This commitment was confirmed prior to the spending review and aims to enhance energy security while creating 10,000 jobs in peak construction, including 1,500 apprentices.
UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband reiterated the importance of investing in UK nuclear power.
“To provide a golden age of clean energy abundance, we need a new core because it is the only way to protect families’ finances, regain control of their energy and tackle the climate crisis.
“This is an activity in the government’s clean energy mission. It’s a low invoice for energy security and an investment in good work.”
A long-awaited step forward
After years of uncertainty, Sizewell C is finally moving forward.
Despite the strong nuclear heritage of the UK, which launched the world’s first commercial nuclear power plant in the 1950s, no new plants have been built since 1995.
With most of the current fleet being abolished by the 2030s set up, Sizewell C plays a pivotal role in ensuring clean, homemade power for the UK’s future.
Job creation and supply chain growth
Beyond direct employment, this investment will support thousands more jobs across the UK, particularly within the nuclear and construction sector.
The project has already signed £330 million in contracts with local businesses, with 70% of the procurement going to 3,500 UK suppliers to boost construction, welding and hospitality jobs.
When in operation, Sizewell C will provide 6 million homes worth of electricity, significantly reducing its dependence on the fossil fuel market.
Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann, co-management supervisors of Sizewell C, commented: “Today, we are setting the start of an exciting new chapter at Sizewell C, the UK’s first UK-owned nuclear power plant, to be the first challenge in over 30 years. It will create more than 10,000 jobs, secure UK energy, and revive the UK’s nuclear industry.
“We aim to showcase the UK infrastructure at its best.
UK’s most ambitious nuclear program
The announcement coincides with a confirmation of one of Europe’s first small modular reactor programs and a record £2.5 billion investment in fusion energy.
Together, these initiatives will generate the largest nuclear expansion in decades and shape the UK’s clean energy future.
Tom Greatrex, CEO of the Nuclear Industry Association, added:
“This announcement understands that the government is serious about the new nuclear weapons, recognizes the economic benefits that come with it, and welcomes the length and width of the UK in its community.”
By quickly tracking the development of Sizewell C, the government is offering new commitments to nuclear power, launching economic growth and changing the UK’s energy environment.
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