A major breakthrough in Britain’s energy future has arrived, as French energy giant EDF commits to a 12.5% stake in the Sizewell C nuclear power project – unlocking thousands of UK jobs and marking a bold step toward energy independence and a low-carbon future.
This landmark investment makes EDF the first official partner alongside the UK Government, which pledged £14.2bn to the project in its recent Spending Review.
Sizewell C, located on the Suffolk coast, is designed to deliver reliable, low-carbon electricity to millions of homes and drive the country’s most ambitious nuclear expansion in decades.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the landmark investment: “I’ve been clear there will be no more dithering and delay on Sizewell C – and this investment takes us a step closer to the benefits it will bring to the British people.
“Lower energy bills, thousands more jobs and apprenticeships, and better energy security – this is not only a vote of confidence in the UK as an investment destination, it is our Plan for Change in action.”
Economic boost and job creation
At peak construction, Sizewell C will support around 10,000 jobs across the UK, with thousands more expected throughout the supply chain.
The project will also create 1,500 apprenticeships, helping to build a skilled workforce for the future of clean energy.
In parallel, French engineering firm Assystem has announced plans to double its UK workforce, adding 1,000 engineering, digital, and project management roles by 2030 across ten sites, including Bristol, London, Sunderland, and Derby.
Strategic timing and international collaboration
The investment comes just ahead of the UK–France Summit, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer prepares to meet President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen cooperation on energy, defence, and economic growth.
The announcement showcases growing UK–France collaboration in nuclear development and green innovation.
As part of this energy alliance, British uranium enrichment company Urenco has signed a 15-year supply deal with EDF to fuel nuclear stations across Europe.
The multi-billion-euro contract supported more than 1,400 UK jobs and contributed over £250m to the economy in 2023.
Innovative funding model
Sizewell C is backed by a new financing model that blends contributions from taxpayers, consumers, and private investors, reducing upfront costs and spreading financial risk.
France’s export credit agency, Bpifrance, is also stepping in with a £5bn debt guarantee, enabling support from leading commercial banks.
The UK Government will remain a key stakeholder in the project, maintaining oversight to ensure timely delivery and strong governance.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband added: “Thousands of jobs and clean power for millions of homes are one step closer today as we welcome this investment into Sizewell C.
“This agreement is a landmark moment in the UK and France’s long-standing partnership in civil nuclear, and a testament to our countries’ strong relationship.”
A golden age for UK nuclear
Sizewell C isn’t just a power station – it’s the centrepiece of a modern, resilient, and sustainable energy system for Britain’s future.
With Sizewell C, Hinkley Point C, and a pipeline of small modular reactors (SMRs) due online in the 2030s, the UK is entering what officials call a ‘golden age’ of nuclear power.
This clean energy surge is expected to supply more new nuclear capacity than the previous half-century combined, cutting emissions, boosting energy security, and lowering long-term bills.
