The UK Government has unveiled a £14.2bn investment in Sizewell C, marking a major step forward in Britain’s nuclear ambitions.
This commitment, confirmed ahead of the Spending Review, aims to enhance energy security while generating 10,000 jobs at peak construction, including 1,500 apprenticeships.
UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband echoed the importance of investing in UK nuclear power: “We will not accept the status quo of failing to invest in the future and energy insecurity for our country.
“We need new nuclear to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance because that is the only way to protect family finances, take back control of our energy, and tackle the climate crisis.
“This is the government’s clean energy mission in action – investing in lower bills and good jobs for energy security.”
A long-awaited step forward
After years of uncertainty, Sizewell C is finally moving ahead.
Despite the UK’s strong nuclear heritage – having launched the world’s first commercial nuclear power station in the 1950s – no new plant has been built since 1995.
With most of the current fleet set for decommissioning by the 2030s, Sizewell C plays a pivotal role in securing clean, homegrown power for Britain’s future.
Job creation and supply chain growth
Beyond direct employment, the investment will support thousands more jobs across the UK, particularly within the nuclear and construction sectors.
The project has already signed £330m in contracts with local businesses, and 70% of procurement is expected to go to 3,500 British suppliers, boosting jobs in construction, welding, and hospitality.
Once operational, Sizewell C will provide power to the equivalent of six million homes, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuel markets.
Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann, Joint-Managing Directors of Sizewell C, commented: “Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Sizewell C, the UK’s first British-owned nuclear power plant in over 30 years. It’s a privilege to be leading a project that will create over 10,000 jobs, secure Britain’s energy future and revitalise the UK’s nuclear industry.
“We aim to showcase British infrastructure at its best – delivering a cleaner, more secure energy future for generations to come.”
The UK’s most ambitious nuclear programme in a generation
The announcement coincides with the confirmation of one of Europe’s first small modular reactor programmes, alongside a record £2.5 billion investment in fusion energy.
Together, these initiatives create the largest nuclear expansion in decades, shaping Britain’s clean energy future.
Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, added: “This new nuclear programme will give the country the jobs, the economic growth and the energy security we need to ensure a secure and reliable power supply for the future.
“This announcement shows the government is serious about new nuclear, and realising the economic benefits that come with it and will be welcomed in communities the length and breadth of Britain.”
By fast-tracking the development of Sizewell C, the government is delivering a renewed commitment to nuclear power, kickstarting economic growth, and transforming the UK’s energy landscape.
