Plant project confusion after decision delayed

The future of the first new nuclear power plant in a generation has been thrown into confusion after the Government delayed a decision until the autumn.

French energy giant EDF gave the final approval to go ahead with the £18 billion project at Hinkley Point in Somerset, despite a split in the board, but the Government said it wanted more time to study the details.

The move stunned the industry and prompted warnings that jobs were at risk. Critics believe the Government has been stung by criticism of the amount of money EDF will be paid for generating power – £92.50 per megawatt hour.