Comment: EDF Energy to extend life of UK nuclear power plants

Commenting on the news that EDF Energy plans to extend the life of its nuclear plants in Britain [1], Jess Ralston, analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) said: "Experts including the Climate Change Committee are clear that the UK will need some new nuclear on top of the wind and solar power which will make up the backbone of our future electricity system. But unlike with offshore wind and other renewables, so far the Government has struggled with how to fund it and its most recent proposal leaves taxpayers on the hook for delays and increased costs. Hinkley Point C is well over budget and set to see further delays.

“Prolonging the life of the existing fleet may plug a gap while the Government sorts out the funding model, and these huge infrastructure projects actually get underway, but it's not a permanent solution. The gas crisis has highlighted that we can't afford to depend on gas for power and that we need to reduce our reliance on it to achieve the government’s stated aim of energy independence. Renewables are cheaper and quicker to build than nuclear plants, so offer a quicker route to energy independence."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. EDF: Investment boost to maintain UK nuclear output at current levels until at least 2026: https://www.edfenergy.com/media-centre/investment-boost-maintain-uk-nuclear-output-current-levels-until-least-2026

For more information or for interview requests:

George Smeeton, Head of Communications, ECIU, Tel: +44 (0)7894 571 153, email: george.smeeton@eciu.net