What is Sizewell C?
Sizewell C Nuclear Power Station: Powering the Future of Suffolk and the UK
Sizewell C is a landmark nuclear power project located on the Suffolk coast, strategically positioned alongside the operational Sizewell B station and the retired Sizewell A site. With all necessary consents secured, Sizewell C is set to become the second nuclear power station in the United Kingdom built using advanced European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) technology…Read more
This ambitious project is majority-owned by the UK Government, making it a genuinely British initiative. Beyond energy security, Sizewell C will create substantial economic benefits, including the creation of 3.2 gigawatts of low-carbon electricity capacity and long-term employment opportunities. At full operation, it will directly employ around 900 skilled professionals and generate thousands of additional jobs during maintenance periods.
Sizewell C’s design draws directly from Hinkley Point C in Somerset, a proven model that minimizes risks and optimizes costs. Built next to Sizewell B, which has been in operation since 1995 and has already prevented over 76 million tonnes of carbon emissions, Sizewell C will further enhance the UK’s climate goals.
By investing in Sizewell C, the UK is not only strengthening its energy independence but also securing a greener, more prosperous future for Suffolk and the entire nation.
Sizewell C Nuclear Power Station – Development Consent Order (DCO) Announcement
As of January 15th, 2024, the commencement of Sizewell C’s Development Consent Order (DCO) marked a monumental milestone for the project, paving the way for the start of its construction activities. With the formal approval of the DCO, Sizewell C is now set to generate a wealth of opportunities, from job creation to vital support for local businesses. The project has received enthusiastic backing from the local community and various stakeholders, reflecting a shared recognition of its potential to significantly contribute to the UK’s carbon reduction targets.
Government Support and Regional Impact
Nuclear Minister, Andrew Bowie, described the DCO as a ‘major milestone’ for Sizewell C and a critical step toward the UK’s ambition to achieve up to 24GW of low-carbon nuclear power by 2050. He highlighted that East Anglia stands to benefit from thousands of new jobs and apprenticeships, showcasing the local rewards of backing new nuclear energy.
The commencement of the DCO has unlocked a £250 million funding package, which will be released in phases throughout the project. This package includes £23 million for community projects, £100 million for environmental initiatives, £12 million to support local tourism, and a £12 million housing fund aimed at boosting private housing and tourist accommodation.
Construction Benefits Socio-economic Benefits Sizewell C is projected to inject £4 billion into the regional economy, creating thousands of employment opportunities. The project will provide 2,500 construction jobs in Suffolk, 70,000 jobs across the UK, and 900 operational roles over its 60-year lifespan. It will also support 3,000 UK-based suppliers and offer apprenticeships and graduate programs, contributing to workforce development. Beyond economic benefits, Sizewell C will help tackle climate change by delivering reliable, low-carbon electricity for decades. Its extensive support for local businesses and long-lasting social benefits have earned it the recognition of embodying ‘The Power of Good For Britain.’ Sustainability Benefits Sizewell C has recently published its first-ever sustainability report, exploring how one of the UK’s largest infrastructure projects will create a lasting legacy of social, economic, and environmental benefits across the nation. The report is structured around five key themes: Jobs, Skills & Economic Growth; People; Communities; Nature & Environment; and Climate. Environmental sustainability is at the core of Sizewell C’s mission. The project is committed to achieving Net Zero by integrating clean technologies into its construction and operations. This includes a Clean Energy Hub supporting Direct Air Capture technology, low-carbon hydrogen production, and the creation of 150 hectares of nature reserve for wildlife. Additionally, plans are in place to establish four more nature reserves on the estate, enhancing the landscape and compensating for any loss of Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) land needed for construction. These initiatives reflect Sizewell C’s dedication to balancing development with ecological preservation. Sizewell C Project Overview We understand that keeping up with the ongoing advancements of the Sizewell C project can be challenging. To assist you, we have prepared a comprehensive slide document that provides a complete overview of the project’s fundamentals. In this document, you will find detailed information about various aspects of the project, such as: milestones, transport strategy, civil work programme, DCO (Development Consent Order) investments and much more. To access the Sizewell C Project Overview and gain a better understanding of the project’s progress, please click the link below.