Talks on £ 20bn nuclear station
MINISTERS have begun talks over the construction of a new £ 20billion nuclear power plant as they set out plans for a clean energy system that will create thousands of jobs.
They confirmed negotiations are taking place with EDF Energy over the Sizewell C site in Suffolk, which could generate 3.2 gigawatts of electricity, enough to provide seven per cent of UK energy demands. Any deal would be subject to a range of approvals on areas such as value for money and affordability, the Government said.
In a statement, it said the discussions are part of its “options to enable investment in at least one nuclear power station by the end of this Parliament”.
It came as the Government put forward its Energy White Paper, which outlines plans it said will support 220,000 jobs in the next 10 years.
Business and Energy Secretary Alok Sharma said: “Today’s plan establishes a decisive and permanent shift away from our dependence on fossil fuels, towards cleaner energy sources that will put our country at the forefront of the global green industrial revolution. Through a major programme of investment and reform, we are determined to both decarbonise our economy in the most cost- effective way, while creating new sunrise industries and revitalising our industrial heartlands that will support new green jobs for generations to come.
“At every step of the way, we will place affordability and fairness at the heart of our reforms – unleashing a wave of competition so consumers get the best deals possible on their bills, while protecting the vulnerable and fuel- poor with additional financial support.”
Simone Rossi, EDF’s UK chief executive, said: “We’re right behind net zero and, by investing in renewables and nuclear at Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C, we’re supporting decarbonisation while creating jobs across the UK. We will continue to help our customers find affordable, low- carbon ways to travel and heat their homes and businesses.
“The time for action is now and we look forward to working with the Government to implement its energy and climate policies, including the financing of new nuclear.”