Following the 70th anniversary of the civil nuclear industry there has been an estimated 2.4 billion tonnes of carbon emissions avoided, alongside 3,224 TWhrs generated by the UK’s nuclear fleet.
At its peak, nuclear energy contributed 25% of the UK’s total generation, which now has fallen to just over 12% as modern renewables have taken the reins.
The Nuclear Industry Association (NIA) say the UK’s civil nuclear sector is now entering a new era of growth, with employment reaching a record 102,606 jobs. Hinkley Point C, decisive government investment in Sizewell C and Project Gwyndod and the Advanced Nuclear Framework means the UK is once more on its way to becoming a nuclear energy world leader.
Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said: “Britain showed the world what nuclear power could achieve. For seventy years, nuclear has served as the backbone of the UK’s electricity mix. Our fleet has also provided tens of thousands of high-paid, high-skilled jobs and contributed well over £100 billion to the UK economy.
“We must not look back in 70 years and regret missing this opportunity.”
Energy Minister Michael Shanks MP, said: “Since Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II first opened Calder Hall, nuclear power has helped keep the lights on for millions of Britons.
“70 years on, the UK is driving forward the next generation of nuclear power through sites like Sizewell C and Hinkley Point C, which will deliver clean, secure and homegrown energy while creating thousands of skilled jobs across the country.”
70 years ago today, on the 17 October 1956, Queen Elizabeth II officially opened Calder Hall – the world’s first full scale commercial nuclear power station.
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