Regeneration of UK”s Energy Infrastructure Commitment

Phil Black - PII Editor 06/10/2015

95 1 minute read

Listen to this article

The Nuclear Industry Association has welcomed the Chancellor’s announcement to set up an independent, all-party, National Infrastructure Commission. Led by cross bench peer, Lord Adonis, the Commission will offer analysis on the UK’s long-term infrastructure needs, with energy already outlined as a key sector.

Welcoming the announcement, Keith Parker, Chief Executive, Nuclear Industry Association said:

“Large scale projects are often affected by the political life cycle and an all-party commission should eradicate this issue and provide certainty for both the public and investors.

“New energy infrastructure has already been outlined as one of the Commission”s first tasks and renewing our nuclear fleet will be critical to ensure the lights stay on. Nuclear currently generates 20% of the UK”s electricity but all but one of these stations are set to close in the next decade.

“If Parliament is serious about decarbonising the UK”s electricity sector at the lowest possible cost it must continue its support for the current 16GW nuclear new build programme. Hinkley Point C alone will generate 7% of the UK”s electricity at a stable cost whilst avoiding 10 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year.

“The Commission must also push ahead with plans for a Geological Disposal Facility to safely house the country”s nuclear waste.”

Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Amber Rudd MP echoed the Chancellor’s commitment to get Britain Building in her speech. Rudd focused on the importance of investing in energy infrastructure, pointing to her recent visit to China and the wider commitment for international investment in Britain’s infrastructure.

Rudd also praised the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre and its research and development into small modular reactors.

Commenting on Amber Rudd’s speech, Keith Parker, Chief Executive, Nuclear Industry Association said:

“Amber Rudd has reinforced her commitment to provide consumers with affordable, secure and clean energy. Characteristics which mould the UK’s nuclear energy industry.

“While it is crucial for the UK to invest in Small Modular Reactors and a range of other clean technologies for the future, it is imperative they push forward with plans to replace the electricity which is currently generated by reactors which will eventually close in the coming decade. To ensure the lights stay on at the lowest possible cost.”