Billions invested in Sizewell C to create thousands of jobs and kickstart UK nuclear revival

The Government has confirmed a landmark £14.2 billion investment in Sizewell C, a nuclear power station in Suffolk. They've said this initiative is expected to create 10,000 jobs, 1,500 apprenticeships, and provide clean, homegrown energy to millions of homes.

The announcement was made ahead of this week’s Spending Review, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Energy Secretary Ed Miliband vowing to launch a “golden age” of nuclear power to boost energy security and bring down bills.

Jobs, Apprenticeships and Growth

The government has said that, at peak construction, Sizewell C will employ 10,000 workers and support thousands more across the UK. Around 70% of contracts are expected to go to 3,500 British suppliers, supporting roles in everything from welding and construction to catering and logistics.

1,500 apprenticeships will also be created, and local businesses have already secured £330 million in contracts.

“We are once again investing in Britain’s renewal,” said Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

“This landmark decision is our Plan for Change in action, creating thousands of jobs, kickstarting economic growth and putting more money in people’s pockets.”

Energy Security for Millions

The Suffolk-based power station is expected to generate enough electricity to power six million homes, playing a central role in replacing the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels with clean, reliable, UK-controlled energy.

“We need new nuclear to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance,” said Energy Secretary Ed Miliband.

“It’s the only way to protect family finances, take back control of our energy, and tackle the climate crisis.”

The investment comes alongside funding for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and record investment in fusion power, together forming what the Government is calling the most ambitious nuclear programme in a generation.

"A New Chapter for UK Nuclear”

Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann, Joint MDs of Sizewell C, called the investment “a new chapter” for UK energy:

“We’re leading a project that will create over 10,000 jobs, secure Britain’s energy future and revitalise the UK’s nuclear industry.”

Trade unions and industry bodies also welcomed the news:

GMB: “Absolutely vital if the UK is to hit net zero.”

Prospect: “A vital step forward... New nuclear is essential to achieving net zero and supporting good, unionised jobs.”

Nuclear Industry Association: “This programme will deliver jobs, growth, and energy security for the country.”

Campaigners: “A Decision the Government Will Regret”

But not everyone is on board. Local campaign group Stop Sizewell C has slammed the decision, calling it financially risky and environmentally damaging.

Founder Alison Downes raised concerns over transparency and value for money:

“There still appears to be no Final Investment Decision for Sizewell C, yet £14.2bn in taxpayer funding is being committed. That’s a decision we condemn and firmly believe the government will come to regret.”

She claims the true cost of the project could exceed £40 billion, and argues that the public has been misled about how much of the money is new:

“Where’s the benefit to voters when this money could be spent elsewhere, especially when Sizewell C will add to consumer bills and, like Hinkley C, is guaranteed to be late and over budget?”

Campaigners also highlight the short-term nature of most jobs, the risk of rising bills during construction, and the UK’s ongoing dependence on foreign uranium and French contractors.

“There’s no energy security in a reactor that’s offline,” she added. “Every EPR build so far has been delayed and over budget — in China, Finland, France and the UK.”

What’s Next for UK Nuclear?

The Government is also:

Investing over £2.5 billion in fusion R&D, including the STEP prototype plant in Nottinghamshire

Preparing to launch Europe’s first SMR programme through Great British Nuclear

Supporting defence nuclear jobs with £6 billion for the submarine industry, and major funding for HMNB Clyde and Sheffield Forgemasters

The Sizewell C project — first earmarked back in 2009 — is now seen as a key plank of the UK’s long-term energy future.

But questions remain around its total cost, the funding model, and the impact on local communities and bills in the years ahead.