UK pursues investors
The UK government arranged a special meeting for investors, hoping to further increase interest in new nuclear build. A series of initiatives to drive forward the nuclear program were announced.
The UK government arranged a special meeting for investors, hoping to further increase interest in new nuclear build. A series of initiatives to drive forward the nuclear program were announced.
The meeting was led by John Hutton, the business and enterprise minister, who presented the results of government-commissioned research. According to Hutton, the UK is one of the very best places in the world to build nuclear power plants.
The minister continued his strong support for new nuclear, which he said is "a key element in our transition to a low carbon economy." He wants new nuclear plants in operation "as quickly as possible, given the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and combating other energy threats."
"New nuclear energy is a key element in our transition to a low carbon economy less dependent on oil, which is essential if we are to deal with the prospect of high oil prices in the medium and long term."
Action plan
Hutton announced to the assembled businessmen the steps the UK government is taking to facilitate the construction of new reactors.
There will be an Office of Nuclear Development within the Department for Business to help various departments across government to work together on nuclear energy.
In coming weeks, Hutton will chair an ongoing Nuclear Development Forum attended by government and industry. It is to "maintain momentum as nuclear new build progresses" and will be similar to another forum dedicated to North Sea oil and gas.
Hutton also promised to publish the draft criteria for choosing sites for new build. This Strategic Siting Assessment is to undergo public consultation.
On regulation, Mike Weightman, chief inspector of the Nuclear Installations Inspectorate, announced that detailed assessment of Westinghouse's AP1000, Areva's EPR and GE-Hitachi's ESBWR had officially begun.
Measures to increase the capabilities of the NII will be forthcoming, following an analysis of the organisation by Tim Stone.
Stone said his preliminary proposals included taking steps to help the NII gain and keep enough staff in order to review the three reactor designs as well as to help Weightman lead the revitalized NII.
Together the moves combine to what Hutton called doing everything he could to ensure new nuclear build. "The UK must aim to become the world's number one location for new nuclear investment," he said to the private sector executives he wants to fund and manage the nuclear program.
