Editorial

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By Bill Bryce, Acting NIA Chairman Firstly, I would like to say that I am honoured to cover the role of NIA chairman while we look to appoint a full-time replacement to Philip Dewhurst, who left in December. I would like to place on record my appreciation for the achievements made by Philip and the dedicated team at the NIA. In his two year tenure, the Association achieved very high visibility and helped get nuclear and the issues of member companies to the forefront of national debate. We wish him well for the future. I would also like to take this opportunity to wish all members the very best for 2007. December’s Energy Choices conference generated some new thoughts and very interesting debates, It was a very encouraging and enjoyable way to approach the year end. The start of the new year was also encouraging due to the recent announcements coming from Brussels as the European Commission unveiled the EU’s energy policy. Central to the announcement was a clear recognition of the strategic and environmental importance that nuclear power provides to member states and of nuclear’s benefits in the future. It recognised that the choice to begin a new or updated nuclear programme rested with member states themselves. But it was clear and unequivocal in labelling nuclear as “one option for reducing CO2 emissions and playing a major role in addressing global climate change.” In fact the EU statement went further. In its summing up it declared: “Therefore, in most industrialised countries new nuclear power plants offer an economic way to generate base-load electricity.” In this most important year for the UK nuclear industry, it was a positive start. But of course we must not get complacent. Balance this against some of the noises coming from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority. Many, if not all members, will now be aware of the potential budgetary issues and follow-on consequences for NIA members. This is a worrying development for the nuclear industry in the UK and we need surety and confidence going forward in the crucial area of nuclear clean-up. The NIA is already trying to clarify the situation with the NDA and Government and to minimise any negative impact on the industry.

 

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