New nuclear target of 2018 on track, says Hendry

Plans for the first new nuclear power station to begin generating electricity by 2018 remain on course, Energy minister Charles Hendry said last week. Mr Hendry also announced that the […]

Plans for the first new nuclear power station to begin generating electricity by 2018 remain on course, Energy minister Charles Hendry said last week.

Mr Hendry also announced that the government’s draft National Policy Statements for energy infrastructure will be strengthened.

Mr Hendry said: “For large energy projects we need to give industry maximum certainty, so that if sound proposals come forward, they will not fall victim to unnecessary hold-ups.

“We have decided to take a further look at the Appraisal of Sustainability of our draft Energy Policy Statements to make sure that they are fit for purpose. Taking this decision now is essential to safeguard our long-term goal of a sustainable and secure energy supply”.

Mr Hendry stated that the finalised statements would be presented to Parliament for ratification next spring. A detailed implementation plan for planning reform on major infrastructure – including transitional arrangements and a revised timetable – will be published later in the summer.

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