New report sets out a blueprint for nuclear energy in the southwest
A new report is highlighting the possibilities of the south west using nuclear power with an aim to provide more than 10% of the nation’s energy demand by 2035.
‘A New Nuclear Future’ is produced by The Great South West Partnership and sets out to show how the region is ‘fundamental to the UK’s next phase of nuclear energy generation.’
Supporters say it’ll underpin national energy security and drive economic growth. The report was recently launched at the Nuclear South West: Securing Energy, Driving Growth event.
It was produced with support from Dorset Council and Somerset Council and it sets out to explain how the Great South West already hosts the highest concentration of nuclear-related employment in the UK – supporting more than 30,000 jobs.
‘The Great South West has demonstrated, through Hinkley Point C, that it can deliver major nuclear infrastructure at scale,’ says Andrew Cockroft, Head of Stakeholder Relations & Social Impact at EDF.
‘A New Nuclear Future clearly articulates the strength of the region’s nuclear ecosystem, from supply chain readiness and skills, to delivering benefits and opportunities to local communities.’
‘That combination significantly reduces risk for future projects, and makes the region an attractive proposition for investors and developers looking to deliver the UK’s next wave of nuclear capacity.’
Researchers highlight how the region is home to Hinkley Point C – the UK’s first new nuclear power station in a generation.
They add that the project’s delivered more than £5 billion of direct spend with regional companies and has helped to support more than 1,300 businesses.
Delegates at the Nuclear South West: Securing Energy, Driving Growth event. Image provided by Program.
‘Ready to play a leading role in that national mission’
A New Nuclear Future puts forward a case for the region to be a prime location for nuclear investment, including small and advanced Modular Reactors.
‘The UK is entering a decisive decade for economic growth and energy security, and the Great South West is ready to play a leading role in that national mission,’ says Professor Dame Judith Petts DBE, Chair of the Great South West Energy Security Programme Board.
‘A New Nuclear Future demonstrates why the region is uniquely placed to support the Government on its growth ambition, and clean energy – including nuclear – is central to that.’
‘With the right partnership working between Government, industry, and the region, the Great South West can play a pivotal role in securing clean, reliable power for the UK, while creating long-term economic value.’
Skills and workforce development are a central theme of A New Nuclear Future, with the region already home to the National College for Nuclear.
There’s also a network of colleges and universities supporting nuclear, clean energy and advanced engineering pathways.
‘Delivering the UK’s nuclear ambitions depends on having the right people with the right skills, in the right places,’ says Andy Berry CBE, UCS College Group CEO.
‘The region has built a strong, flexible skills ecosystem that supports the nuclear industry today while preparing for the new technologies of tomorrow.’
‘This report recognises the critical role of education and training in creating a resilient, highly skilled workforce that can support long-term nuclear programmes, and generate good jobs for local communities to benefit from the opportunities that nuclear power can bring.’
Breaktime News recently reported on the Great South West’s Annual Conference 2025 which saw more than 500 business leaders attending the event in Exeter.
