The Department acknowledged there will be a production gap between existing nuclear stations closing and new ones coming online. However, it told us that it was not concerned about a lack of generating capacity during that period. It told us that the capacity market allowed electricity capacity to be bought well ahead of time, and had shown itself to be “very robust” in ensuring electricity generation needs are met. The Department also explained that Sizewell B would continue to operate, and ...

The Department acknowledged there will be a production gap between existing nuclear stations closing and new ones coming online. However, it told us that it was not concerned about a lack of generating capacity during that period. It told us that the capacity market allowed electricity capacity to be bought well ahead of time, and had shown itself to be “very robust” in ensuring electricity generation needs are met. The Department also explained that Sizewell B would continue to operate, and it expected Hinkley Point C to be operating from the mid-2020s, which would help limit the gap.32 Type: conclusion | Number: 19 | Response status: not_addressed Government response: 4: PAC conclusion: EDFE’s timetable for the closure of the stations will result in a significant reduction in the UK’s generating capacity until new capacity comes online. 4a: PAC recommendation: The Department working with the Office for Nuclear Regulation, EDFE, and Ofgem should urgently review wh