The government has today announced plans for the biggest expansion of nuclear power in 70 years to bolster the United Kingdom’s energy independence, reducing electricity bills and supporting thousands of jobs.
The Civil Nuclear Roadmap details plans to quadruple the UK’s nuclear generation to 24 gigawatts by 2050, which would cover a quarter of the country’s electricity needs.
The government has unveiled several proposals to help achieve this target. For example, plans are underway for the construction of a GW-scale power plant as big as Sizewell C in Suffolk or Hinkley C in Somerset, which can power up to six million homes each.
The government will also invest £300 million into the domestic production of HALEU, the fuel required to power high-tech nuclear reactors, making the UK the first European country to have a high-tech nuclear fuel programme. There are plans for a new production hub in the North West to be operational from early next decade.
The roadmap also includes a government ambition to secure 3-7GW worth of investment decisions on new nuclear projects every 5 years between 2030 and 2044.
Analysis by the Nuclear Skills Strategy Group estimates that these ambitious targets will create 80,000 new jobs.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “Nuclear is the perfect antidote to the energy challenges facing Britain - it’s green, cheaper in the long term and will ensure the UK’s energy security for the long-term.
“This is the right long-term decision and is the next step in our commitment to nuclear power, which puts us on course to achieve net zero by 2050 in a measured and sustainable way.
“This will ensure our future energy security and create the jobs and skills we need to level up the country and grow our economy.”
Following its launch last year, Great British Nuclear will lead the UK’s nuclear ambitions and will oversee competition by six shortlisted companies to develop small modular reactor (SMR) technology. Unlike conventional nuclear reactors which are built on site, SMRs are smaller and can be made in factories, and could revolutionise construction of power stations.
Gwen Parry-Jones, CEO of Great British Nuclear, said: “The Civil Nuclear Roadmap provides a framework for GBN to help deliver more safe, clean and affordable UK nuclear power to UK consumers.
“Together with industry, we will enthusiastically take up the role the government has set out for us in delivering and advising across the UK’s nuclear programme. We are actively building GBN’s capability to take on the challenge ahead.”
Minister for Nuclear Andrew Bowie said: “The government’s investment in nuclear will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of technological developments.
“Our plans will give investors the confidence to back new UK projects, with a simpler process for locating new schemes and clear support for private sector companies developing innovative new technologies.
“By meeting a quarter of our electricity demand with nuclear, we will strengthen our energy independence, reduce bills and support jobs across the UK.”
The new roadmap is a significant step towards the government’s target of decarbonising all sectors of the UK economy and achieving net zero by 2050.
Photo: iStock
