Sizewell B power plant given lifetime extension to 2055
The government has agreed terms with EDF to support a 20-year life extension
The government has backed a 20-year lifetime extension of Sizewell B nuclear power station, supporting 900 skilled jobs.
It's claimed the extended operation will reduce the costs of Britain's energy system, compared to building alternative generation, protecting billpayers and strengthening our energy security.
Currently, Sizewell B provides approximately 3% of the UK’s total electricity needs.
Alongside the extension of Sizewell B, the government is continuing to back nuclear projects across the UK, including Britain’s first small modular reactors in Anglesey, and the construction of Sizewell C, set to produce clean power for the equivalent of six million homes and support 10,000 jobs at peak construction.
Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, said: “Nuclear power is vital for our energy security and this extension will help produce the clean power our country needs.”
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: “Sizewell B is a vital part of Britain's energy future, and this agreement secures clean, homegrown power for millions of homes until 2055.
“It is also a real vote of confidence in the hundreds of skilled workers in Suffolk who will power Britain's clean energy future, delivering the long-term certainty that businesses and workers need.”
Minister for Science, Innovation, Research and Nuclear, Lord Vallance, said: “This deal protects billpayers and boosts the country’s energy security by continuing to provide clean, secure power for millions of households.
“By backing Sizewell B, we are delivering a golden age of nuclear and maintaining 900 skilled jobs in Suffolk.”
The government and EDF have agreed terms for a 20-year Contract for Difference at £70.50 per megawatt in 2025 prices starting from 2035, the original closure date, with support and investment from Centrica.
Skilled workers in nuclear will be retained through the continued operation of Sizewell B. The Nuclear Industry Association estimates that nearly 100,000 people are employed in nuclear jobs across the country.
CEO of EDF UK, Simone Rossi, said: “Global events demonstrate time and again how vital it is for the UK to secure long term, low-carbon, homegrown electricity which protects British households and businesses from market volatility. Extending the life of the plants we already have alongside building new ones is central to EDF’s strategy.”
Chief Executive of Centrica, Chris O'Shea, said: “I’m delighted that Sizewell B, in which Centrica owns a 20% share, will continue to play a key role in the UK’s energy system for decades to come. Generating around 3% of the UK’s electricity, Sizewell B is critical to delivering the reliable, zero-carbon baseload power that supports Britain’s energy security, protects skilled jobs and underpins a more resilient economy. We welcome the constructive engagement with Government in reaching this agreement, providing the certainty needed to support the required investment.”