EDF welcome Government's energy strategy

Renewables are being put at the heart of the government's new strategy to deliver "cleaner and more affordable" energy.

Ministers aim to make 95% of electricity low carbon by 2030 - but Labour says the plans do nothing to help with rising costs at the moment.

The French energy firm said "We are delivering our new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point C and working hard, with Government, on a replica at Sizewell C. These are key foundations for further plans for nuclear. EDF is also looking at extending the operational life of Sizewell B power station by at least 20 years, from 2035 to 2055. Together Sizewell B, Sizewell C and Hinkley Point C could deliver reliable low carbon power for more than 15 million homes."

EDF’s UK CEO Simone Rossi said:

“Britain is right to take control of its energy future, with a step change in ambition for electricity from wind, nuclear and solar, and greater energy efficiency.

“Building more new nuclear will reduce Britain’s dependence on overseas gas and keep energy prices stable, creating thousands of jobs while we’re doing it. At Hinkley Point C we’re already building British nuclear, with 3600 British businesses and 22,000 people making it happen, including over 800 apprentices. The fastest way to get more nuclear in Britain is get on with the next two units at Sizewell C. It’s a copy of Hinkley Point C, the design is approved and ready to go, and British manufacturers are experts in how to build it. Building more of the same design is the best way to bring down costs and develop a strong UK supply chain.”

Hassaan Majid, Acting CEO of EDF Renewables UK said:

“Building more renewables as quickly as possible will help diversify our production sources and support security of supply.

The UK is a world leader in offshore wind and the sector continues to grow at pace, but deployment of renewables needs to be even faster. Onshore wind and solar are very competitive options. These technologies have extensive pipelines ready to build.

“Ensuring barriers to quicker consenting and grid connections are removed, and that planning and regulatory bodies are guided by net zero, energy security and affordability objectives, are key to achieving the vision set out for the country.”

EDF say they're actively exploring life extension of Sizewell B of at least 20 years, to take output to 2055 or beyond. A final investment decision is anticipated by 2024, which would then be followed by the required capital investment in the plant, safety enhancements and obtaining the necessary approvals.

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