Government needs energy security plan

EDF have recently announced that their new Hinkley Point C plant will not be operational by the estimated 2023. Experts have called for the Government to set out a clear road map outlining the UK’s energy supply.

Prospect deputy general secretary Garry Graham said:

“The prevailing Zeitgeist that the private sector will provide will only happen if the government gives investors confidence and clearly articulates what is needed. The delay, while no surprise to those working in energy, “shows we need action to support nuclear new build now. Our existing nuclear fleet is the largest contributor to low-carbon base-load generation. But it is reaching the end of its operational life at the same time as more coal plant comes offline.” “On an isolated basis these decisions [the closure of Ferrybridge, Longannet and Eggborough] are driven by commercial logic but the bigger question remains. How do we ensure reliable base-load generation to keep the lights on? It is an indictment of current policy that we are paying energy intensive users to cease production and come off supply at points of peak demand. It is scandalous that we are the first industrial nation telling industry to stop production because we cannot service their energy needs.” “Any road map should address the skills and supply chain capability and capacity and ensure that the UK benefits from these huge construction projects, and is a world leader in low-carbon generation. This is imperative because of the long lead times for such projects.”