As the Government launches Great British Nuclear Prospect warns that warm words must be matched with action

The government has, after some delay, finally launched Great British Nuclear which it says will help to boost nuclear development in the UK.

The government says:

• Great British Nuclear to drive rapid expansion of nuclear power at an unprecedented scale and pace
• It has kickstarted a competition for game-changing small modular reactor (SMR) technology, which could result in billions of pounds of public and private sector investment in SMR projects
• plans will boost energy security, create cheaper power and grow the economy – creating better-paid jobs and opportunity right across the country

It does not however make much mention of larger scale nuclear power stations beyond Hinkley C and Sizewell C.

Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary of Prospect, said:

“The launch of Great British Nuclear is an important milestone in the government’s ambition to deliver the next generation of nuclear power and get us to net zero.

“Warm words must be matched with quick action and proper funding. SMRs on their own will not be enough: we also need to get on with properly financing Sizewell C and at least one other large scale nuclear plant.

“The window for creating and protecting the skills we need for new nuclear is closing. If we miss this opportunity, then our commitment to net zero will be hot air.”