Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
Greater transparency on the sourcing of work and materials for new nuclear projects and a reformed Nuclear Industry Council were announced by Energy Minister Baroness Neville-Rolfe at the Nuclear Industry Association annual conference today.
New nuclear power will play an important role in building a secure, affordable and clean energy system fit for the 21st century.
In total, there are industry proposals for new nuclear developments at six locations, including Hinkley Point C, which would deliver around 18GW of capacity over the coming decades and a substantial opportunity for UK businesses in the supply chain.
New nuclear developers are being encouraged to share supply chain information with industry in the early stages of development to ensure that UK companies are positioned and prepared to bid for these opportunities.
Energy Minister Baroness Neville Rolfe said:
The UKs nuclear renaissance will trigger big benefits for British businesses and its important they are ready for the challenge.
This is why today I am making sure developers will be required to show evidence that their projects support growth in the UK supply chain, improve competition, and boost innovation and skills.
Having visibility of the projects will give UK companies the incentive and confidence to invest, expand their capabilities, and train and retain their skilled employees.
In response to feedback from members, the reformed Nuclear Industry Council will take a more strategic approach covering the whole spectrum of the nuclear industry; including defence and decommissioning as well as having a specific focus on driving UK supply chain growth and skills development.
The first meeting of the reformed Council will take place early 2017.
Notes to editors
Baroness Neville-Rolfes speech to the NIA