The UK Government has officially approved the Sizewell C nuclear power plant, marking the first majority British-owned nuclear facility announcement in over 30 years. The Chancellor will announce £14.2 billion in funding at the GMB Congress, adding to the £3.6 billion already invested, bringing the total government investment to £17.8 billion.
Sizewell C is a cornerstone for achieving energy independence and revitalising the UK nuclear sector. Over 70% of construction contracts will be awarded to UK companies, enhancing domestic supply chains and economic growth. Situated on the Suffolk Coast near Sizewell A and B, it has been described by consultancy Enco as “the best-prepared nuclear energy site in modern history.”
Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, stressed its strategic importance: “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.”
Sizewell C is set to generate clean, reliable power for approximately 6 million UK homes, equivalent to 20% of the national total. It will also create over 10,000 jobs and 1,500 apprenticeships, supporting the next generation of British engineers, scientists, and construction workers.
The project is the first UK nuclear plant to use the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) funding model, protecting consumers from cost overruns through independent regulation and strict cost controls. This model ensures affordable, low-carbon energy without undue financial risk to families.
For further context, see the [UK’s Clean Power Plan](https://esgnews.com/uk-unveils-historic-clean-power-plan-to-secure-energy-independence-by-2030/), which aims for energy independence by 2030.
Beyond energy, Sizewell C will benefit over 3,500 UK companies, including firms like Wright Bus in Northern Ireland and William Hare Group in Wales. The project arrives when UK energy security and affordability are critical issues, exacerbated by volatile gas markets and recent crises. The government aims to reduce dependency on foreign energy sources and stabilise bills. Miliband added, “This is the Government’s clean energy mission in action – investing in lower bills and good jobs for energy security.”
Chancellor Rachel Reeves called it “the biggest rollout of nuclear power in a generation.”
EDF UK CEO Simone Rossi welcomed the decision, stating, “It is also a vote of confidence in Hinkley Point C, which has re-started the UK nuclear industry and built the experience and skills that will benefit Sizewell C.”
The government’s majority stake in Sizewell C is now 83.8%, following the buyout of a Chinese partner’s share in 2022 due to security concerns. EDF holds 16.2%, expected to decrease after this funding round. While total project costs and completion dates are not disclosed, Sizewell C is poised to be integral to the UK’s clean energy transition, projected to save £1–1.5 billion annually in electricity system costs once operational.
This approval signifies a strong commitment to reshoring energy supply chains, securing jobs, and fulfilling the UK’s net-zero ambitions for decades to come.
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