Energy UK is urging the government to act decisively and unleash the full potential of nuclear energy, positioning it as a key pillar of a clean energy future and a driver of economic growth.
A new report highlights this as a pivotal moment for the nuclear industry.
With the 15,000-strong workforce at Hinkley Point C rebuilding domestic expertise, a final investment decision on Sizewell C expected this spring and discussions underway on future large-scale and small modular reactors (SMRs), the sector stands at a crossroads.
Currently, nuclear provides 13% of the UK’s electricity but four of the country’s five operating nuclear stations are nearing the end of their lifespan.
While Hinkley Point C is expected to supply 7% of the UK’s electricity, and Sizewell C could double that, a wider expansion is needed to meet projected demand, which is expected to double over the next 25 years due to electrification of transport, heating and new technologies.
Nuclear will play a crucial role in powering our economy, homes and businesses with our own sources of clean energy… It is imperative that we seize this opportunity at a pivotal time for the industry.”
Energy UK
The report underlines nuclear’s role as a stable, clean energy source to complement variable renewables like wind and solar.
It also stresses the economic potential, with 64,000 people directly employed in the nuclear sector and another 211,000 supported indirectly.
At Hinkley Point C alone, 23,500 jobs have been created, with 60% of project value going to UK suppliers.
SMRs are seen as a promising next step, offering quicker builds, flexible siting and strong appeal to data centre operators seeking dedicated power via Power Purchase Agreements.
Other potential nuclear applications include hydrogen production, district heating and fusion energy.
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