The United Kingdom recently pledged PS16.7 billion towards expanding its nuclear energy sector. Of that sum, PS14.2-billion will go toward the construction of Sizewell C nuclear power plant in Suffolk while another PS2.5-billion has been set aside to develop small modular reactors (SMRs), with engineering giant Rolls-Royce leading SMR research development.
Sizewell C will power nearly six million homes with electricity. Furthermore, it will create over 10,000 construction jobs and 1,500 apprenticeship opportunities – helping make Britain less dependent on fossil fuels and more energy independent.
SMRs are smaller and quicker to build than conventional nuclear plants; Rolls-Royce plans an SMR that could power three million homes while creating around 3,000 skilled jobs.
Energy Secretary Amber Rudd noted that investment would help meet UK climate goals while guaranteeing a steady energy supply in future years. Furthermore, government plans include maintaining nuclear fusion research investments as well as its support of nuclear-powered submarines.
Unions and some energy experts generally support Hinkley Point C for its job creation potential as well as clean energy potential; however, critics have voiced concerns over high costs and delays to previous projects such as Hinkley Point C which have experienced major setbacks.
Under the current model, construction costs will be covered by consumers through their energy bills. Government officials have pledged public reviews in order to preserve transparency and manage spending responsibly.
Sizewell C will become the UK’s biggest nuclear power project in decades if completed on schedule, while small modular reactors (SMRs) should begin appearing by mid-2030s. Collectively, these projects aim to transform Britain’s energy landscape by cutting emissions and increasing domestic power production.
