Sizewell B nuclear plant granted 20-year life extension to 2055
8 reported
The UK government has granted a 20-year life extension to the Sizewell B nuclear power plant in Suffolk, allowing it to operate until 2055. The plant, which first synchronized with the National Grid in 1995, was originally due to shut down within the next decade. Under the deal, the plant’s lifetime will be extended to 60 years to help meet growing demand for low-carbon electricity. Sizewell B produces 3% of Britain’s electricity, enough to power the equivalent of 2.5 million homes. The government approved the extension alongside policies to encourage new nuclear projects, with Energy Secretary Ed Miliband stating that nuclear power is vital for energy security. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the extension provides long-term certainty for workers in Suffolk. The deal includes a guaranteed price of £70.50 per megawatt-hour for electricity generated from 2035, with maintenance costs supported by Centrica, which owns a 20% share in EDF’s UK reactors.
What’s reported
Sizewell B nuclear plant in Suffolk granted a 20-year life extension to 2055.
The plant was first synchronized with the National Grid in 1995 and was due to shut down within the next decade.
It produces 3% of Britain’s electricity, enough for 2.5 million homes.
Owner EDF will receive £70.50 per megawatt-hour from 2035 under the deal.
Centrica, which owns a 20% share in EDF’s UK reactors, will provide extra investment for maintenance.
The extension follows similar deals for four 1980s-built nuclear plants: Heysham 2 and Torness (to March 2030), and Heysham 1 and Hartlepool (to March 2028).
New nuclear projects include Hinkley Point C (expected early 2030s), Sizewell C (before 2039), and small modular reactors (2030s).
The government also approved the One Earth Solar Farm on the Nottinghamshire-Lincolnshire border, which could power over 200,000 homes.
Key figures
Ed Miliband, energy secretary
Rachel Reeves, chancellor
EDF, French state utility and owner of Sizewell B
Centrica, company with 20% share in EDF’s UK reactors
Sources: The Guardian
