The new age of British nuclear has dawned as Rachel Reeves gave the sector the boost it has wanted for years – funding for Sizewell C.
In her formal announcement, made at the GMB Congress earlier, the Chancellor said:
This government is giving our full backing to the Sizewell C nuclear plants, providing £14.2 billion of additional funding for the first directly state funded nuclear power station since 1988, producing the energy to power 6 million homes employing 10,000 people, supporting thousands more jobs across the UK, including 1500 apprenticeships and putting hundreds of millions of pounds into the supply chain.
“And that’s not all, Congress, because this government backs British innovation. And because the potential for faster, cleaner, cheaper energy is there, we will be backing new small modular reactors.
“Investing in that technology and then the rapid deployment of fusion technology, backing our world leading fusion plant in Nottinghamshire, providing a route for private sector led advanced nuclear projects to be deployed here in the UK, bringing those jobs to Britain.”
You can watch her full statement below.
Ms Reeves ended by stating her Labour government is launching a new era of nuclear power here in Britain.
It seems this is very welcome both here and internationally.
Sector support
Dhara Vyas, chief executive at Energy UK, said: “Recommitting to large-scale projects like Sizewell C, alongside the backing for SMRs marks a genuine turning point – giving long-overdue certainty to an industry with the potential to power millions of homes, create tens of thousands of jobs, and anchor economic growth in communities across the country.
“With the right policy environment and commitment to delivery, the UK can become a world leader in nuclear energy once again – from traditional major projects to innovative cutting-edge SMRs.”
Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said:
“This is a hugely significant moment for Rolls-Royce SMR and for the British nuclear programme. These SMRs will provide essential energy security and clean power alongside large scale reactors, all the while creating thousands of well-paid, skilled jobs, opportunities for growth right across the country and significant export potential.
“We look forward to working with Rolls-Royce SMR and all other potential SMR vendors, including those not successful today, on making Britain the best place to build new nuclear anywhere in the world.”
Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce SMR has been selected by Great British Nuclear to build three SMR units in the UK. The company says this will generate employment, boost the supply chain and generate economic growth, including significant export opportunities.
This is a very significant milestone for our business and Rolls-Royce SMR. It is a vote of confidence in our unique nuclear capabilities, which will be recognised by governments around the world. It is also evidence that the strategic choices we have made in the transformation of Rolls-Royce are delivering.
“I believe the value of Rolls-Royce SMR will grow materially from here as we successfully execute and deliver on the potential of this venture. I would like to thank the team in Rolls-Royce SMR for their hard work and dedication in getting to this important stage.”
Tufan Erginbilgic, CEO, Rolls-Royce
Unions
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “This announcement is vital for jobs in construction and the energy sector. Unite has led the campaign for building Sizewell C and the development of SMRs. Workers will be relieved that the investment has finally been secured.
“The Sizewell C and SMR announcements must only be a first step towards serious and sustained investment in UK nuclear power to end the instability in our energy sector. The promise of small modular rectors must be backed alongside investment in fusion, The government also needs commit to building a new nuclear power station at Wylfa.”
What is Sizewell C?
Majority owned by the UK Government, Sizewell C is a British nuclear project which will strengthen energy security while providing thousands of jobs across the country.
Replicating the design and operation of Hinkley Point C, currently under construction, the 3.2-gigawatt power station will generate low-carbon energy for at least 60 years.
It will be built next to Sizewell B which began operating in 1995 and has, so far, powered 6 million homes and prevented more than 76 million tonnes of carbon emissions.
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Construction sector
Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) Chief Executive Andrew Hockey said: “The Government’s commitment to the new nuclear build at Sizewell will give greater certainty to the sector for planning.
“Our own research published earlier this week, highlights that the size of the engineering construction industry (ECI) workforce in the nuclear sector could grow by 29% to more than 46,000 by 2030.
“Steel erectors, electrical technicians and welders – critical skills for new nuclear build – are among the roles most in demand.”
Sam White, Managing Director, natural resources at Costain, added: “The government’s confirmation is a huge step forward for the UK’s energy security and net zero ambitions. This nationally significant infrastructure project will provide a safe and resilient energy supply for millions of homes, creating a sustainable future for the UK.
“At the same time, this is a project that will accelerate the development of highly sought-after engineering skills for thousands of long-term jobs, driving economic prosperity for the East of England. We’re looking forward to working closely with Sizewell C and its supply chain partners to play our part in its successful and efficient delivery.”
International reaction
Director General of Nucleareurope, Emmanuel Brutin said the UK was showing real leadership: “This decision will bring a significant boost as it is expected to lead to the creation of 10,000 jobs including 1,500 apprenticeships.
“This demonstrates the UK’s confidence in the essential role which nuclear plays in ensuring reliable, clean electricity and meeting the climate targets.”
