Net Zero Needs Nuclear
Nuclear energy is key to the UK’s ambition of reaching its net zero target by 2050. It offers a reliable, uninterrupted energy supply with the lowest lifecycle carbon footprint, making it an essential part of the UK’s clean energy mix. Nuclear provides the stable “baseload” power necessary to complement variable renewable sources like wind and solar. Currently, nuclear power supports over 86,000 green jobs, driving economic growth on local, regional, and national levels, while also sustaining a highly developed supply chain.
However, the UK’s nuclear capacity is shrinking as older plants retire. Recent closures include Dungeness B in 2021, Hunterston B and Hinkley Point B in 2022, with more closures scheduled for 2026 and 2028. This leaves Sizewell B as the only operational plant, providing 1.2 GW of power. Although Hinkley Point C will add another 3.2 GW when it becomes fully operational, this alone won’t be enough to meet future energy needs.
Sizewell C, which will generate 3.2 GW like its sister station, Hinkley Point C, is critical to maintain and expand nuclear capacity. While new technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) show promise, they are still in development. Large-scale plants like Sizewell C are needed now to fill the gap.
People & Skills
Beyond energy generation, Sizewell C will contribute significantly to the UK’s workforce and skills development. Mirroring Hinkley Point C, Sizewell C will create thousands of well-paid jobs, supporting long-term nuclear careers and providing training opportunities like apprenticeships. This project will also strengthen the UK’s nuclear supply chain, building on the expertise developed during the construction of Hinkley Point C.
The government’s strong backing for Sizewell C is crucial, as it will capitalize on existing infrastructure, skills, and knowledge, making it a cornerstone of the UK’s clean energy future.
What Will Sizewell C Mean for the UK?
Sizewell C offers significant environmental and economic benefits:
Green Energy Generation: It will provide 3.2GW of low-carbon energy, meeting 7% of the UK’s energy needs enough to power 6 million homes. This contribution is critical for the UK’s transition to renewable energy sources.
CO2 Emissions Reduction: By generating green energy, Sizewell C will help save 540 million tonnes of CO2 emissions over its operational life of 60 years, playing a major role in combating climate change.
Job Creation and Economic Support: The project is expected to employ 25,000 highly skilled workers and support at least another 50,000 jobs in the UK’s nuclear supply chain. This will create long-term economic stability and provide vital job opportunities in engineering, construction, and nuclear energy sectors.
Nuclear Careers and Leadership: Sizewell C will ensure the continued development of nuclear careers in the UK, not only sustaining the existing workforce but also creating opportunities for new talent to enter the industry. By providing a platform for skills development and career progression, the project will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
These factors highlight Sizewell C’s role in supporting both environmental goals and long-term economic growth in the UK and this is why Sizewell C must be built and why it is so critical if we are to achieve our net zero target.
