Government in talks to fund Sizewell C plant

Author: Adam GoacherPublished 14th Dec 2020

The government has confirmed it's entering negotiations with EDF surrounding the Sizewell C project in Suffolk.

Negotiations will be focused on reaching a monetary agreement before any final decision is made.

Any potential successful conclusion to the negotiations will be scrutinised before they can go ahead.

In response to the Government confirming it will enter negotiations with EDF in relation to Sizewell C, Simone Rossi, EDF’s UK CEO, said:

“We’re right behind Net Zero, and by investing in renewables and nuclear at Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C we’re supporting decarbonisation while creating jobs across the UK. We will continue to help our customers find affordable, low carbon ways to travel and heat their homes and businesses.

“The time for action is now and we look forward to working with the Government to implement its energy and climate policies, including the financing of new nuclear.”

Humphrey Cadoux-Hudson, CBE, Managing Director, Nuclear Development:

“The Government’s decision to enter negotiations on Sizewell C is great news and further recognition of the vital role large scale nuclear will play in getting to Net Zero.

“The go-ahead for Sizewell C would bring the Green Industrial Revolution to life, creating thousands of British jobs and apprenticeships, and delivering a huge boost for thousands of nuclear supply chain companies up and down the country. It will be a project Britain can be proud of.

“We are eager to start discussions with the Government on a suitable financing model for the project and we look forward to the next phase of scrutiny of our plans by the Planning Inspectorate.

“Sizewell C will build on the great progress being made at Hinkley Point C and, as a copy, will benefit from lower construction and financing costs. We are confident that we can arrive at a funding solution which will provide value for money and help to lower energy bills for consumers.”