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Alternative Routes to Market for New Nuclear Projects

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is developing alternative routes to market for new nuclear projects, including advanced nuclear technologies, to diversify financing mechanisms beyond traditional approaches. This includes consultation on financial support for nuclear lifetime extensions and third-party liability frameworks for advanced reactor designs. The policy is active and aims to enable new nuclear deployment through flexible market access and investment structures.

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2026

7 events
11 Mar 2026 | Policy paper Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Advanced nuclear framework

This Framework is designed to support the development, commercialisation and deployment of private innovative nuclear projects within the UK energy system.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Advanced nuclear framework (45pp)
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↓ Advanced nuclear framework (accessible webpage) ↓ Fframwaith niwclear uwch (47pp) ↓ Fframwaith niwclear uwch (tudalen we hygyrch) ↓ Introduction to the Advanced Nuclear Framework: February 20… (34pp)
4 Feb 2026 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Advanced Nuclear Framework

UIN: HLWS1304 My Hon Friend the Minister of State for Energy, Michael Shanks MP, has today made the following statement:Today we are publishing the Advanced Nuclear Framework for private projects which reinforces the golden age of nuclear. The Framework sets …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓

2025

15 events
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

We welcome the introduction of a framework that gives a strong presumption of consent for low-carbon generation and accommodates a broader range of nuclear technologies. However, confidence in a developer- led approach is not yet assured and will only come if DESNZ, GBE-N, and the Planning Inspectorate can collectively provide DCO applicants with the support and guidance they will need to carry out proportionate assessments against the criteria. Without this, there is a risk that the flexibil...

We welcome the introduction of a framework that gives a strong presumption of consent for low-carbon generation and accommodates a broader range of nuclear technologies. However, confidence in a developer- led approach is not yet assured and will only come …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

As we said in our previous Report, Gridlock or Growth, there remains a fundamental tension between the Government’s stated preference for a market-led approach to energy and the trend towards active government management. This is especially apparent in nuclear policy, where siting for gigawatt-scale plants has always required some degree of state backing. Given this reality, the Government needs to be considerably more explicit about what nuclear technologies it wants deployed and where it en...

As we said in our previous Report, Gridlock or Growth, there remains a fundamental tension between the Government’s stated preference for a market-led approach to energy and the trend towards active government management. This is especially apparent in nuclear policy, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

When designating EN-7, the Government should publish a plan with its preferred level and mix of nuclear technologies, indicative deployment timelines, and the role of EN-6 sites potentially suitable for gigawatt-scale plants. Each part of this plan should explain the role of GBE-N in facilitating it. (Recommendation, Paragraph 21)

When designating EN-7, the Government should publish a plan with its preferred level and mix of nuclear technologies, indicative deployment timelines, and the role of EN-6 sites potentially suitable for gigawatt-scale plants. Each part of this plan should explain the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

GBE-N should announce its plans for Oldbury and Wylfa without further delay, including which technologies it intends to deploy. (Recommendation, Paragraph 22)

GBE-N should announce its plans for Oldbury and Wylfa without further delay, including which technologies it intends to deploy. (Recommendation, Paragraph 22) Type: conclusion | Number: 4 | Response status: partially_accepted Government response: The draft EN-7 recognises that the sites …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

We also recommend that EN-7, or the accompanying guidance, explicitly support the use of conditional commencement mechanisms (also known as Grampian conditions). These would allow consent to be granted while restricting the start of specified works until relevant licences or authorisations are secured. (Recommendation, Paragraph 32)

We also recommend that EN-7, or the accompanying guidance, explicitly support the use of conditional commencement mechanisms (also known as Grampian conditions). These would allow consent to be granted while restricting the start of specified works until relevant licences or …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

Looking beyond EN-7, the Government will need to start considering proposals for a more diverse fleet of reactors with different benefits and risks. A future NPS might, for certain technologies, need to disapply criteria or introduce entirely new ones. (Conclusion, Paragraph 38) 25

Looking beyond EN-7, the Government will need to start considering proposals for a more diverse fleet of reactors with different benefits and risks. A future NPS might, for certain technologies, need to disapply criteria or introduce entirely new ones. (Conclusion, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

EN-7 should signal the Government’s openness to developing more technology-specific criteria in the next nuclear NPS, and invite ongoing contributions from industry, regulators and independent experts on how siting policy can adapt to a more varied nuclear landscape. (Recommendation, Paragraph 40) Improvements to the draft criteria

EN-7 should signal the Government’s openness to developing more technology-specific criteria in the next nuclear NPS, and invite ongoing contributions from industry, regulators and independent experts on how siting policy can adapt to a more varied nuclear landscape. (Recommendation, Paragraph …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

Besides traditional measures like apprenticeship quotas and community benefit funds, the Government should also investigate more creative mechanisms to ensure economic value from nuclear developments is captured locally. This could include doing more to encourage jointly consenting public infrastructure like roads and railways, and exploring fiscal measures like full business rate retention for local authorities. These approaches may prove more adaptable to SMRs, with their smaller geographic...

Besides traditional measures like apprenticeship quotas and community benefit funds, the Government should also investigate more creative mechanisms to ensure economic value from nuclear developments is captured locally. This could include doing more to encourage jointly consenting public infrastruc

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

The requirement in the generic EN-1 NPS for applicants to consider the use of waste heat should be restated in more technology-specific terms within EN-7 or the accompanying guidance. This could better support applicants seeking to make productive use of nuclear-generated heat. (Recommendation, Paragraph 66) 27

The requirement in the generic EN-1 NPS for applicants to consider the use of waste heat should be restated in more technology-specific terms within EN-7 or the accompanying guidance. This could better support applicants seeking to make productive use of …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
22 Jul 2025 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

New nuclear policy update

UIN: HCWS880 The Government’s clean energy superpower mission is about replacing the UK’s dependence on fossil fuel markets with clean homegrown power that we control, to bring down bills for good and protect household finances.As we drive for a clean …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
22 Jul 2025 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

New nuclear policy update

UIN: HLWS877 My Rt hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband MP) made the following Statement today:The Government’s clean energy superpower mission is about replacing the UK’s dependence on fossil fuel markets with …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
22 Jul 2025 | Policy paper Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Sizewell C: government support package

Contractual documents for the Sizewell C (SZC) nuclear power station.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Sizewell C: Contingent Financing Agreement (71pp)
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↓ Sizewell C: Discontinuation and Compensation Agreement (97pp) ↓ Sizewell C: Government Liquidity Facility Agreement (53pp) ↓ Sizewell C: Nuclear Administration and Statutory Transfers … (94pp) ↓ Sizewell C: Supplemental Compensation Agreement (118pp) ↓ Sizewell C: Independent Technical Advisor (ITA) deed of app… (74pp) ↓ Sizewell C: Liaison agreement (64pp) ↓ Sizewell C: Increase in Allowed Revenue (IAR) statement (4pp) ↓ Sizewell C: Call Option Agreement (11pp)

2024

12 events
29 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Should our successor Committee wish to examine the Government’s approach to delivering new nuclear, we recommend it considers: • Examining what progress has been made towards the Government reaching FID for two new nuclear plants by the end of the next Parliament, including progress made on Sizewell C and progress made towards supporting a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) developer; • Scrutinising how the role of Great British Nuclear (GBN) has developed beyond running an SMR competition and if it...

Should our successor Committee wish to examine the Government’s approach to delivering new nuclear, we recommend it considers: • Examining what progress has been made towards the Government reaching FID for two new nuclear plants by the end of the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
22 May 2024 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Nuclear Policy Update

UIN: HCWS494 In January this Government published the Civil Nuclear Roadmap which represented the biggest expansion of nuclear power for 70 years. It set out our ambition for 25% of our power to come from nuclear by 2050.Since then, the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
22 May 2024 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Nuclear Policy Update

UIN: HLWS493 My right honourable Friend, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Claire Coutinho MP) has today made the following statement:In January this Government published the Civil Nuclear Roadmap which represented the biggest expansion of nucle...

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
12 Apr 2024 | Consultation (closed) Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

consultation closed

This consultation seeks to examine what steps government can take to enable different routes to market for new advanced nuclear technologies. Government sees great national opportunities in the nuclear sector, and we are seeking responses to support us in developing …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
26 Jan 2024 | Policy paper Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Civil nuclear: roadmap to 2050

The civil nuclear roadmap sets out the government’s vision for a dynamic civil nuclear sector, supporting the ambition to achieve net zero by 2050.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Civil nuclear: roadmap to 2050 (74pp)
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↓ Civil nuclear: roadmap to 2050 (accessible webpage) ↓ Civil nuclear: roadmap to 2050 (print-ready version) (75pp) ↓ Niwclear sifil: map ffordd hyd at 2050 (72pp)
11 Jan 2024 | Consultation (closed) Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

consultation opened

This consultation seeks to examine what steps government can take to enable different routes to market for new advanced nuclear technologies. Government sees great national opportunities in the nuclear sector, and we are seeking responses to support us in developing …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
11 Jan 2024 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Civil Nuclear Roadmap

UIN: HCWS177 Today, we are publishing three key documents which signal the biggest expansion of nuclear power for 70 years and reinforce the UK’s position as a leader in the civil nuclear renaissance: a Civil Nuclear Roadmap, a consultation on …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
11 Jan 2024 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Civil Nuclear Roadmap

UIN: HLWS174 My hon. Friend the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Andrew Bowie) has today made the following Statement:Today, we are publishing three key documents which signal the biggest expansion of nuclear power for 70 years and reinforce the UK’s …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓

2023

53 events
18 Sep 2023 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Update on Nuclear

UIN: HCWS1036 Britain needs a nuclear renaissance to help deliver a low cost, clean and secure electricity system. New nuclear will result in reliable, abundant energy, whilst driving down consumers’ bills and boosting economic growth.Sizewell C is a crucial project …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
18 Sep 2023 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Update on Nuclear

UIN: HLWS1019 My hon. friend the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Andrew Bowie) has today made the following statement:Britain needs a nuclear renaissance to help deliver a low cost, clean and secure electricity system. New nuclear will result in reliable, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

As a matter of strategic planning, the Government and the sector should, at a time of expansion, deliberately increase the permeability of the sector to other commercial, engineering and scientific sectors.

As a matter of strategic planning, the Government and the sector should, at a time of expansion, deliberately increase the permeability of the sector to other commercial, engineering and scientific sectors. Type: conclusion | Number: 35 | Paragraph: 171 | …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

So far, the Government has not published financial figures which allow the cost of this risk transfer to be known. The Government must publish figures, before signing contracts for new gigawatt-scale nuclear, which allow a proper assessment of value for money to be made, including setting out the level and potential cost of construction risk to be borne by the consumer or taxpayer.

So far, the Government has not published financial figures which allow the cost of this risk transfer to be known. The Government must publish figures, before signing contracts for new gigawatt-scale nuclear, which allow a proper assessment of value for …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

It may be the case that the size of capital outlay means that private investors will not repeat a CfD contract for new nuclear, whatever the price. But the lack of alternative choices should not mean that any terms will be acceptable for a RAB financed plant. The Government should make, and disclose, its best estimate of the value of the risk that would be taken on by the public, and a clear plan of how those risks can be managed through incentives during the development, construction and ope...

It may be the case that the size of capital outlay means that private investors will not repeat a CfD contract for new nuclear, whatever the price. But the lack of alternative choices should not mean that any terms will …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

If a single supplier of SMRs were to be available, either through Government choice or following the Generic Design Assessment process, the CfD auction model will not be suitable. As part of a clear and specific strategy for SMRs, the Government should come to a view quickly on what financial model would be available for the initial deployment and communicate this clearly to developers.

If a single supplier of SMRs were to be available, either through Government choice or following the Generic Design Assessment process, the CfD auction model will not be suitable. As part of a clear and specific strategy for SMRs, the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

We welcome the proposed inclusion of nuclear energy generation in the UK Green Taxonomy as it reflects the low-carbon contribution of nuclear power and may make new building projects more attractive to private investors as with other low-carbon energy generators.

We welcome the proposed inclusion of nuclear energy generation in the UK Green Taxonomy as it reflects the low-carbon contribution of nuclear power and may make new building projects more attractive to private investors as with other low-carbon energy generators. …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) Generic Design Assessment’s (GDA) goal- based approach is well regarded internationally and is intended to be adaptable for any new technology. We welcome the work that the ONR has done to modify the GDA to allow more flexibility for new reactor designs that seek to enter the UK market.

The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) Generic Design Assessment’s (GDA) goal- based approach is well regarded internationally and is intended to be adaptable for any new technology. We welcome the work that the ONR has done to modify the GDA …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

Some witnesses are concerned that the GDA has capacity constraints and is a lengthy and expensive process given that there are no site-specific guarantees afterwards. Whilst acknowledging the need for UK sovereignty over regulations, witnesses pointed out the considerable overlap of the technical approval process for new reactors between established nuclear nations.

Some witnesses are concerned that the GDA has capacity constraints and is a lengthy and expensive process given that there are no site-specific guarantees afterwards. Whilst acknowledging the need for UK sovereignty over regulations, witnesses pointed out the considerable overlap …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

The Government should consider how it could reduce the GDA application timelines and the required resources through international collaborations between regulators, and should provide access to pre-engagement for new nuclear developers prior to Delivering nuclear power 107 entering the GDA. The ONR should examine ways to recognize, in whole or part, safety approvals for mature reactor designs granted by partner countries with similarly high standards to capitalise on work previously done.

The Government should consider how it could reduce the GDA application timelines and the required resources through international collaborations between regulators, and should provide access to pre-engagement for new nuclear developers prior to Delivering nuclear power 107 entering the GDA. …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Government response linked

Given that the Minister envisaged a three-year timeline to develop, consult upon, and designate a new nuclear National Policy Statement (NPS), and that as of 18 July 2023 the consultation stage had not even started, we are concerned that there may be a creeping delay in updating the NPS for new nuclear. This would not only send the wrong signal to a sector poised for investment but could cause delays in deployment. New nuclear developers require knowledge of where a reactor can be built if th...

Given that the Minister envisaged a three-year timeline to develop, consult upon, and designate a new nuclear National Policy Statement (NPS), and that as of 18 July 2023 the consultation stage had not even started, we are concerned that there …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

We conclude that it is reasonable for EDF to seek life extensions to extend their contribution to the grid if, and only if, the Office for Nuclear Regulation’s judgement is that they can be safely operational as is currently the case.

We conclude that it is reasonable for EDF to seek life extensions to extend their contribution to the grid if, and only if, the Office for Nuclear Regulation’s judgement is that they can be safely operational as is currently the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The new Nuclear Strategic Plan, that we recommend, must spell out how the current reactor fleet, through life extensions, will contribute to the Government’s ambition of 24 GW from nuclear by 2050.

The new Nuclear Strategic Plan, that we recommend, must spell out how the current reactor fleet, through life extensions, will contribute to the Government’s ambition of 24 GW from nuclear by 2050. Type: recommendation | Number: 2 | Paragraph: 32 …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

Gigawatt-scale nuclear power stations use a known and well understood technology that can deliver dependable low carbon baseload electricity to the grid. Nuclear power is therefore an important option and could be used to produce a domestic supply of baseload power to the UK as part of the low carbon energy mix required to achieve the Government’s goals of increasing energy security and achieving net zero by 2050. However, the question of energy security must engage with the questions of sour...

Gigawatt-scale nuclear power stations use a known and well understood technology that can deliver dependable low carbon baseload electricity to the grid. Nuclear power is therefore an important option and could be used to produce a domestic supply of baseload …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

In his previous role as industry advisor to Great British Nuclear, Simon Bowen produced a report proposing what function and form Great British Nuclear should take. This report was delivered to the Government in September 2022.

In his previous role as industry advisor to Great British Nuclear, Simon Bowen produced a report proposing what function and form Great British Nuclear should take. This report was delivered to the Government in September 2022. Type: conclusion | Number: …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government should publish the report and recommendations submitted by Simon Bowen, industrial adviser to Great British Nuclear, and his team on the purpose of Great British Nuclear, alongside the Government response to this report.

The Government should publish the report and recommendations submitted by Simon Bowen, industrial adviser to Great British Nuclear, and his team on the purpose of Great British Nuclear, alongside the Government response to this report. Type: recommendation | Number: 6 …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The 2050 target for nuclear of 24 GW needs a plan to achieve it, which must include clarity on the bodies and institutions that will deliver it. After asking the Department to provide more clarity on what legislation will be required to ensure that Great British Nuclear can operate as intended, we are pleased to see that the Government has tabled amendments to the Energy Bill 2022–23 to include this legislation. Having said this, there are still some points of ambiguity over exactly how Great...

The 2050 target for nuclear of 24 GW needs a plan to achieve it, which must include clarity on the bodies and institutions that will deliver it. After asking the Department to provide more clarity on what legislation will be …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government should take steps to advance the ability for FIDs to be taken before 2029 and provide a detailed timeline of when it expects the winner or winners of GBN’s SMR technology selection process to begin commercially supplying electricity to the UK.

The Government should take steps to advance the ability for FIDs to be taken before 2029 and provide a detailed timeline of when it expects the winner or winners of GBN’s SMR technology selection process to begin commercially supplying electricity …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

Gigawatt-scale nuclear power plants require UK experience—of the supply chain, regulatory processes and the wider energy sector—to deliver projects efficiently. However, the UK may benefit in the future from multiple operators of small and advanced, nuclear power technologies as they have the potential to provide market competition, collaboration opportunities and prevent a groupthink mentality.

Gigawatt-scale nuclear power plants require UK experience—of the supply chain, regulatory processes and the wider energy sector—to deliver projects efficiently. However, the UK may benefit in the future from multiple operators of small and advanced, nuclear power technologies as they …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government should provide clarity on how it plans to achieve its 24 gigawatt aim, and the expected timeline for these. This should include details of: a) the target mix of reactor technologies, including the desired number of future gigawatt scale reactors, that the Government will support; and b) a detailed timeline for when new projects are expected to be completed.

The Government should provide clarity on how it plans to achieve its 24 gigawatt aim, and the expected timeline for these. This should include details of: a) the target mix of reactor technologies, including the desired number of future gigawatt …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

An essential requirement will be to resolve of the questions of whether a standardised fleet of nuclear power plants, using serial versions of the same reactor technology, has the potential to benefit the UK as new knowledge and resources can be transferred from one project to the next, reducing the risk of construction and cost overruns. The inevitable objection that such a strategy embeds the risk that operational issues identified with one power plant could affect the entire fleet can be m...

An essential requirement will be to resolve of the questions of whether a standardised fleet of nuclear power plants, using serial versions of the same reactor technology, has the potential to benefit the UK as new knowledge and resources can …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government, through Great British Nuclear, must choose between the potential cost benefits of a standardised nuclear fleet of gigawatt reactors and the energy security and resilience that a diversity of reactor designs provides.

The Government, through Great British Nuclear, must choose between the potential cost benefits of a standardised nuclear fleet of gigawatt reactors and the energy security and resilience that a diversity of reactor designs provides. Type: conclusion | Number: 15 | …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

By publishing a detailed Nuclear Strategic Plan, as we recommend, which includes the types and number of reactors to be built in the UK, the Government should provide a signal to the nuclear fuel industry to step up and increased its end-to-end fuel manufacturing capacity. The Government should set out in the Nuclear Strategic Plan how it will capitalise on the strengths of the UK’s nuclear fuel supply chain to secure a resilient supply of nuclear fuel for any new planned reactors and develop...

By publishing a detailed Nuclear Strategic Plan, as we recommend, which includes the types and number of reactors to be built in the UK, the Government should provide a signal to the nuclear fuel industry to step up and increased …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government is at a cross-roads in its policy on small modular reactors (SMRs). So far it has funded a consortium led by Rolls-Royce with over £210 million of research and development funds to develop a concept SMR design, and now, to further develop the design to the extent that it can pass the generic design assessment process. That public funding was matched with £280 million from the private sector. It has subsequently announced that Great British Nuclear will launch and administer a c...

The Government is at a cross-roads in its policy on small modular reactors (SMRs). So far it has funded a consortium led by Rolls-Royce with over £210 million of research and development funds to develop a concept SMR design, and …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

It is not uncommon, in the face of an unclear strategy or unresolved internal arguments about financing, for governments to defer decisions rather than take them. But this would be the wrong course. The UK risks losing the advantage of 102 Delivering nuclear power the public investment that has already been made; as well as contributing to the ambiguity in our future energy supply; and perpetuating a level of policy risk that is likely to drive a risk premium on costs, to the detriment of the...

It is not uncommon, in the face of an unclear strategy or unresolved internal arguments about financing, for governments to defer decisions rather than take them. But this would be the wrong course. The UK risks losing the advantage of …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

In developing a Nuclear Strategic Plan the Government should answer the questions of: • what deployment of SMRs it wants to see, if any; • what technologies and vendors it intends to deploy, and whether they will be from a single supplier or multiple suppliers; • what sites should SMRs be located at; and • what financial model would be used to support the contribution of SMRs to electricity supply?

In developing a Nuclear Strategic Plan the Government should answer the questions of: • what deployment of SMRs it wants to see, if any; • what technologies and vendors it intends to deploy, and whether they will be from a …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

Whilst investment by Government in early stage and demonstrator reactors will drive forward innovation for advanced modular reactors (AMRs), bringing them closer to commercialisation, what is also important is the UK having a regulatory environment and incentives for private investment. This has been demonstrated to work in the UK’s fusion sector, where as well as strong Government funded demonstrator programme, the regulatory system, skills environment and developing supply chain, is attract...

Whilst investment by Government in early stage and demonstrator reactors will drive forward innovation for advanced modular reactors (AMRs), bringing them closer to commercialisation, what is also important is the UK having a regulatory environment and incentives for private investment. …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

AMRs may offer new advantages in terms of cost and the potential for co-generation. But if they are to advance the research and development needs to move from the desk and the lab towards demonstrators, and this will require the Government to make decisions as to which technologies to fund.

AMRs may offer new advantages in terms of cost and the potential for co-generation. But if they are to advance the research and development needs to move from the desk and the lab towards demonstrators, and this will require the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government should continue its support for the Advanced Modular Reactor Research, Development and Demonstration programme and ensure that it takes decisions on funding particular technologies and projects without delay, so that it keeps pace with competitors.

The Government should continue its support for the Advanced Modular Reactor Research, Development and Demonstration programme and ensure that it takes decisions on funding particular technologies and projects without delay, so that it keeps pace with competitors. Type: recommendation | …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

It is not surprising that the nuclear sector has not been the industry of choice for many STEM specialists embarking on a career. At a time when no new nuclear plants had been approved for decades, this was a sector thought by some not to be one with a bright future in which to contemplate a lifetime career specialisation.

It is not surprising that the nuclear sector has not been the industry of choice for many STEM specialists embarking on a career. At a time when no new nuclear plants had been approved for decades, this was a sector …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

However, if the Government and the nuclear industry credibly adopt a stable, long term plan of growing the nuclear sector, there are very significant attractions to recruitment: new build and new technologies involve innovation and technical 104 Delivering nuclear power advances; the timescales of nuclear commitments offers the prospect of enduring careers; the global revival of nuclear power offers international opportunities; and financial rewards are likely to remain high.

However, if the Government and the nuclear industry credibly adopt a stable, long term plan of growing the nuclear sector, there are very significant attractions to recruitment: new build and new technologies involve innovation and technical 104 Delivering nuclear power …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

As part of a strategic approach to nuclear, the Government and the industry should set out steps deliberately to communicate to school-leavers, graduates and to those changing careers, the particular advantages of choosing to work in the nuclear industry.

As part of a strategic approach to nuclear, the Government and the industry should set out steps deliberately to communicate to school-leavers, graduates and to those changing careers, the particular advantages of choosing to work in the nuclear industry. Type: …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

It is highly desirable that, in expanding employment in the sector, opportunities should continue to be broadened to people from sectors other than nuclear. Apart from the wider pool of talent available, it is important there should be flows into and out of the nuclear industry from other industries. The risk for any industry that is too insulated from others is that it can be insular and impervious to different ways of thinking that are practiced in other industries. At a time of such rapid ...

It is highly desirable that, in expanding employment in the sector, opportunities should continue to be broadened to people from sectors other than nuclear. Apart from the wider pool of talent available, it is important there should be flows into …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

We were impressed by the obviously effective working relationship between the National College for Nuclear and the Hinkley Point C Project. In this case, the training provided, and the apprenticeships offered, are clearly tied to a specific employer and site. We were concerned that there was a lack of clarity on who should fund the development of the curriculum and teaching materials for courses mounted exclusively to serve the needs of a particular employer. The Government and the Nuclear Sk...

We were impressed by the obviously effective working relationship between the National College for Nuclear and the Hinkley Point C Project. In this case, the training provided, and the apprenticeships offered, are clearly tied to a specific employer and site. …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

Gigawatt-scale nuclear projects cost tens of billions of pounds to plan and construct before a single unit of electricity is generated. Their long period of construction, complexity, and subordination to potentially variable regulatory standards have been associated with large cost-over runs and delays. For all of these reasons, and more, the financing of gigawatt-scale new nuclear power has proved formidably challenging. Most civil nuclear nations have built new nuclear power stations on the...

Gigawatt-scale nuclear projects cost tens of billions of pounds to plan and construct before a single unit of electricity is generated. Their long period of construction, complexity, and subordination to potentially variable regulatory standards have been associated with large cost-over …

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31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government should show how this offers value for money to taxpayers and should be open to other alternative partnerships between the public and private sectors as practised in other countries (including those set out in Table 2). The choice to proceed with gigawatt-scale nuclear power should not be made without robust estimates of its value for money, including the financial value of the construction risk being assumed by taxpayers or billpayers. A headline lower cost than Hinkley Point C...

The Government should show how this offers value for money to taxpayers and should be open to other alternative partnerships between the public and private sectors as practised in other countries (including those set out in Table 2). The choice …

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31 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

This is an important moment for the future of small modular reactors (SMRs) as we set out in Chapter 3. Following the £500 million Government and investor funded development of an SMR concept through to the beginning stages of regulatory approval. Clarity is needed on the Government’s plans to deploy the technology if it completes the generic design assessment. This includes deciding on what financing model will be made available should the policy be to deploy SMRs in supplying power to the g...

This is an important moment for the future of small modular reactors (SMRs) as we set out in Chapter 3. Following the £500 million Government and investor funded development of an SMR concept through to the beginning stages of regulatory …

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18 Jul 2023 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Technology Selection Process Launch

UIN: HCWS965 In March this year, as part of the Powering Up Britain strategy, the government set up Great British Nuclear (GBN). GBN will deliver the government’s long-term nuclear programme, driving forward nuclear projects in the UK. The organisation’s first …

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18 Jul 2023 | Announcement Department for Energy Security and Net Zero linked

Technology Selection Process Launch

UIN: HLWS950 My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero has today made the following statement:In March this year, as part of the Powering Up Britain strategy, the government set up Great British Nuclear …

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21 Jun 2023 | Committee report linked

In the last two decades, government has only agreed one nuclear project, at Hinkley Point C.18 The government is now creating Great British Nuclear to help it build capacity and expertise, and a regulatory regime aimed at expanding its nuclear pipeline and help it 7 Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener, 19 October 2021; Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, British Energy Security Strategy, 7 April 2022; HM Treasury, Net...

In the last two decades, government has only agreed one nuclear project, at Hinkley Point C.18 The government is now creating Great British Nuclear to help it build capacity and expertise, and a regulatory regime aimed at expanding its nuclear …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

While we have heard dividing evidence on the role that nuclear energy should play in achieving the UK’s net zero targets and ensuring domestic energy security, there is a broad consensus between the UK and Welsh Governments, and the majority of our witnesses, in favour of new nuclear energy generation.

While we have heard dividing evidence on the role that nuclear energy should play in achieving the UK’s net zero targets and ensuring domestic energy security, there is a broad consensus between the UK and Welsh Governments, and the majority …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

The storage technology required for an entire electricity system run on renewable energy is not there yet. Therefore, on balance, we consider that nuclear energy has a strong role to play, as part of a mix of low carbon sources, in achieving net zero and energy security.

The storage technology required for an entire electricity system run on renewable energy is not there yet. Therefore, on balance, we consider that nuclear energy has a strong role to play, as part of a mix of low carbon sources, …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

The previous attempt to bring a new nuclear project to Wylfa by Hitachi has left scars on the local community. We are concerned that expectations are being raised again on Ynys Môn and question how long the uncertainty can continue about whether or not a new nuclear build will be delivered at Wylfa.

The previous attempt to bring a new nuclear project to Wylfa by Hitachi has left scars on the local community. We are concerned that expectations are being raised again on Ynys Môn and question how long the uncertainty can continue …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

We have heard from a wide range of industry representatives that Wylfa is one of the best sites for nuclear development and it is difficult to see how the UK Government can deliver its nuclear ambitions without taking forward a project at Wylfa. We consider that Wylfa should be the location of the next gigawatt-scale nuclear generation plant after Sizewell C.

We have heard from a wide range of industry representatives that Wylfa is one of the best sites for nuclear development and it is difficult to see how the UK Government can deliver its nuclear ambitions without taking forward a …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

While successfully developing a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) would present a huge opportunity for the UK, the technology is still in development phase. If the UK Government is serious about nuclear energy now it needs to pursue new gigawatt- scale plants alongside its policy on SMRs.

While successfully developing a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) would present a huge opportunity for the UK, the technology is still in development phase. If the UK Government is serious about nuclear energy now it needs to pursue new gigawatt- scale …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

The UK Government, and Great British Nuclear, should continue to engage with Cwmni Egino on its ambition for Trawsfynydd to become the first site to host Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the UK. We urge the Government to include the Trawsfynydd site in the new Nuclear National Policy Statement as a potential site for SMRs. (Paragraph 36) Financing new neclear

The UK Government, and Great British Nuclear, should continue to engage with Cwmni Egino on its ambition for Trawsfynydd to become the first site to host Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the UK. We urge the Government to include the …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

We welcome the UK Government’s announcement that nuclear energy will be included in the green taxonomy, subject to consultation. We consider that this will unlock new avenues of private investment for nuclear development and send the signals needed to the financial sector that nuclear energy is an attractive investment. (Paragraph 53) Potential economic impact of new nuclear developments

We welcome the UK Government’s announcement that nuclear energy will be included in the green taxonomy, subject to consultation. We consider that this will unlock new avenues of private investment for nuclear development and send the signals needed to the …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

New nuclear developments at Wylfa or Trawsfynydd could be a game-changer for the north Wales regional economy. Such projects would play an important role in the UK Government’s Levelling-Up agenda by bringing high-skilled, well-paid, long-term job opportunities to a rural area of the UK. It is vital that north Wales has the opportunity to benefit from the developments that arise from the UK-wide strategy to deliver net zero and achieve greater energy security.

New nuclear developments at Wylfa or Trawsfynydd could be a game-changer for the north Wales regional economy. Such projects would play an important role in the UK Government’s Levelling-Up agenda by bringing high-skilled, well-paid, long-term job opportunities to a rural …

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3 May 2023 | Committee report linked

While we welcome what feels like small steps in the right direction towards new nuclear at Wylfa, we do still question how much further down the path we are now to seeing a successful development than we were when Hitachi withdrew from the site. There will remain risks associated with both the UK and Welsh Governments’ political commitment to nuclear power and we believe the UK Government needs 28 Nuclear energy in Wales to make further commitments within this Parliament. Our overarching view...

While we welcome what feels like small steps in the right direction towards new nuclear at Wylfa, we do still question how much further down the path we are now to seeing a successful development than we were when Hitachi …

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3 May 2023 | Written evidence linked

One of the significant missing parts of the future of nuclear development is the lack of a utility developer in the UK, other than EDF-related companies. We recommend that the UK Government explains its plans to resolve this problem and whether there is a role for Great British Nuclear to play. (Paragraph 80) Nuclear energy in Wales 29 Written evidence: Letter from Rt Hon Stephen Crabb MP, Chair, to the Prime Minister, 3 March 2023 Dear Prime Minister, I am writing ahead of the UK Budget anno...

One of the significant missing parts of the future of nuclear development is the lack of a utility developer in the UK, other than EDF-related companies. We recommend that the UK Government explains its plans to resolve this problem and …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

Floating offshore wind offers the potential to expand and diversify the UK’s portfolio of wind projects, including to the Celtic Sea. Significant new investment in UK ports will be needed to enable floating offshore wind to be deployed at scale and to harness local supply chains and manufacturing. The Government’s Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme, though welcome, may not address the key concern of port operators — long term market revenue certainty. To provide ports with...

Floating offshore wind offers the potential to expand and diversify the UK’s portfolio of wind projects, including to the Celtic Sea. Significant new investment in UK ports will be needed to enable floating offshore wind to be deployed at scale …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

International examples suggest that the best way to bring the cost of nuclear energy generation down is to build a programme of new nuclear reactors, so that supply chains and skills can be developed and transferred from one project to the next. The Government has taken steps in this direction, with plans to establish a programme of new nuclear projects, supported by Great British Nuclear, and to launch a competition to select the leading small modular reactors. The Government’s nuclear roadm...

International examples suggest that the best way to bring the cost of nuclear energy generation down is to build a programme of new nuclear reactors, so that supply chains and skills can be developed and transferred from one project to …

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2022

4 events
20 May 2022 | Committee report linked

The terms of the 2009 sale of the nuclear stations agreed by the Department with EDFE placed a disproportionate amount of risk for meeting future decommissioning costs on the taxpayer. The negotiations surrounding the sale of the stations to EDFE in 2009 were focused on maintaining operations, with less attention paid to meeting the costs of decommissioning. Although EDFE successfully extended the lives of all the AGR stations, which bolstered the UK’s capacity to generate electricity, there ...

The terms of the 2009 sale of the nuclear stations agreed by the Department with EDFE placed a disproportionate amount of risk for meeting future decommissioning costs on the taxpayer. The negotiations surrounding the sale of the stations to EDFE …

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20 May 2022 | Committee report linked

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. In 2020, nuclear power accounted for 16% of UK electricity generation. The closure of seven nuclear stations by 2028 will therefore have a significant impact. EDFE considers that the AGR stations will be reaching the technical limit of safe operations and so their use could not be extended while we wait for new generating capacity of come onl...

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. In 2020, nuclear power accounted for 16% of UK electricity generation. The closure of seven nuclear …

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20 May 2022 | Committee report linked

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 …

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20 May 2022 | Committee report linked

We asked whether there could be value in reusing the AGR sites, given the existing support in those communities for nuclear power. In particular, we asked the Department what work it was doing to give more clarity to the providers of small modular reactors about potential plans for these sites. Both the NDA and EDFE told us they were keen to make their sites available for small modular reactor development, and had held preliminary discussions with possible suppliers of advanced or small modul...

We asked whether there could be value in reusing the AGR sites, given the existing support in those communities for nuclear power. In particular, we asked the Department what work it was doing to give more clarity to the providers …

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