Great British Nuclear officially launched 18th July 2023. We welcome the government’s focus on nuclear as a fundamental part of our journey to energy security and reaching net zero, whilst delivering a substantial boost to the UK economy.
We are excited to see the progress that this influential new body will make as it drives the industry forwards.
South West at the forefront
The announcement brings the South West into the spotlight. Nuclear skills, infrastructure and activity are already flourishing on and around the Hinkley Point C site and can provide a launch pad for the new builds and technology to come.
Corinne Matthews, Heart of the South West LEP Nuclear Lead says:
“Great British Nuclear’s clear drive for nuclear energy as a significant part of the net zero solution will not only reduce our carbon emissions immensely, but it will also generate new jobs for highly skilled engineers and manufacturing contracts.
“This boost to the economy and skills of the country as a whole is something we have seen and nurtured first hand here in the South West. The Hinkley Point C socio-economic and the Hinkley Supply Chain reports both demonstrate the boost financially and to the infrastructure of the region.
“With the launch of Great British Nuclear, we look forward to seeing these opportunities grow, with skills and supply chain capability from the South West poised to play a prominent role.”
Driving the UK nuclear industry forward
The Great British Nuclear statement focuses on:
- Driving rapid expansion of nuclear power at an unprecedented scale and pace
- Kickstarting competition for game-changing small modular reactor (SMR) technology, which could result in billions of pounds of public and private sector investment in SMR projects
- Boosting energy security, creaing cheaper power and growing the economy – creating better paid jobs and opportunites right across the country
The nuclear industry is estimated to generate around £6 billion for the UK economy.
Today’s statement also opens registration for companies to participate in competition to secure funding for product development. As a result, billions of pounds of public and private sector investment could be made towards small modular reactor (SMR) projects in the UK.
Join the conversation
What are your thoughts and reactions to the Great British Nuclear launch?