EDF Energy reveal 'positive' impact of Hinkley Point C construction

Bosses at EDF Energy have revealed the details of the 'positive impact' the construction of Hinkley Point C has had so far - both in Somerset and in the wider West Country.

The new figures are all a part of Hinkley Point C’s 2024 Socio-Economic Impact Report, which has revealed 'the power of green investment' - with the report showing Hinkley Point C's construction is helping to build a more skilled workforce, helping thousands of people to get the vital knowledge they need to progress into higher paying jobs.

It's all through their 'Centres of Excellence' for welding, electrical, mechanical and construction skills come from officially deprived areas, according to EDF Energy - thanks to their work with Bridgwater and Taunton College.

It's all a part of their £24 million worth of investment into education and skills alongside the development of the nuclear power station site itself.

They have revealed:

• More than 8,000 people have been trained in Hinkley Point C’s new Centres of Excellence
• Almost one third of those being trained today are from the most deprived areas of Britain
• 1,320 apprentices have been trained so far
• The area around Hinkley Point C has seen a 25% growth in younger people aged 25-39
• Productivity in the local town of Bridgwater is now 10% higher than surrounding towns

Most of the 8,000 trained come from across the South-West of England and South Wales from places ranging from Minehead and Burnham-On-Sea to Port-Talbot and Pontypridd.

Bosses at Hinkley Point C say they want to leave 'a legacy of a more skilled and productive workforce, that gives Somerset’s economy a competitive edge'.

The station itself will provide 900 permanent jobs for at least 60 years.

Hinkley Point C’s Managing Director, Stuart Crooks said: "As a former apprentice, I know that giving people the chance to learn new skills can change lives and communities for the better This report shows that our big investment in Net Zero nuclear electricity is playing a vital role in tackling problems of low growth, poor productivity and inequality. Our investment is a one-hundred-year commitment to the area. I am pleased that we are making a difference and I am determined that our social impact will endure for many years to come."

Energy Security Secretary, Claire Coutinho said: "Hinkley Point C will not only bring clean, reliable power to 6 million homes across the UK but it is also levelling up the South West. Thousands of young people from the most deprived areas are being given well paid jobs helping to deliver UK energy independence.

"We have announced the biggest expansion of nuclear power in 70 years, from starting construction at Sizewell C in East Anglia, to acquiring new sites in North Wales and Gloucestershire, and we hope to see similar levels of investment and productivity in communities across the country."

Andy Berry, Principle and CEO of Bridgwater & Taunton College said: "Through our partnership with Hinkley Point C, we are immensely proud to be providing a regional and national solution for the skills to achieve Net Zero.

"We are committed to providing accessible, high-quality education that accommodates diverse needs and abilities and a culture of inclusivity and opportunity. Together with Hinkley Point C, we are not only transforming the lives of individuals by preparing them for outstanding future careers, but also driving regional prosperity and positioning the South West and the UK as a leader in the global nuclear sector."

Cllr Ros Wyke, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, Somerset Council, said: "Since inception, the project has put significant efforts into the skills and employment of local people and has created a supply chain that has given Somerset and South West companies opportunities for growth and development into new areas. Year on year, the annual report shows us the value the project is bringing to our local and national economy."

Emma Rawlings, Chief Executive of Somerset Chamber of Commerce said: "Somerset Chamber of Commerce has been working with the team at HPC for over a decade to ensure local people and businesses benefit from the many opportunities the project offers. Businesses consistently tell us they are facing a shortage of people with the right skills for the job – HPC is helping to bridge the skills gap and helping to keep future generations of workers in Somerset by offering them training, job opportunities and highly-skilled roles."

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