Nuclear is "in the public interest"

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The Nuclear Industry Association’s response to the government consultation on nuclear gives a clear message that nuclear is vital in combating climate change and ensuring the UK’s security of supply. The NIA welcomed the opportunity to contribute to this extremely full public consultation on the future of nuclear and strongly backed the view that it is in the public interest to have new nuclear as part of a diverse, low-carbon economy. The NIA’s response says energy companies should have the option of investing in new nuclear in the UK. We are confident new nuclear stations could be on-line by 2017 and that the UK nuclear industry has the capability to deliver. A clear commitment to new nuclear will provide an outstanding opportunity for UK industry to take a significant share of the work. Keith Parker, NIA Chief Executive, said urgent and sustained action was needed. “We strongly believe new nuclear is essential in helping to deliver ambitious carbon reduction targets and ensure affordable, stably-priced supply. Nuclear must be part of that solution.” “Nuclear is low-carbon and helps maintain diversity, and hence security of the UK’s electricity supply. We firmly believe this is in the nation’s best interest.” Highlights of the NIA’s response include: Strong and urgent action is needed to encourage investment in low carbon generation to help tackle climate change Nuclear is necessary to ensure diversity of our energy supplies and prevent overdependence on imported gas Clear commitment to new nuclear will provide an outstanding apportunity for UK industry to take a significant share of the work A properly functioning long term carbon market enshrining the polluter pays principle is needed to encourage low carbon investment New nuclear stations can be delivered in 10 rather than the 13 years the government assumes. Modern reactors will produce much less waste over their lifetimes Deep geological disposal is the long term solution for waste and the government should implement it as soon as possible (there is a separate consultation on this which closes in November) The UK industry has the capability to build 70-80% of a new station but the government needs to encourage investment in skills The NII needs to have the capacity (in human and financial terms) to deliver reactor licensing. The full NIA response can be found on our website at http://www.niauk.org/news/latest-nuclear-news

 

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