The British government announced its plan to invest up to 14.2 billion pounds, equivalent to $19 billion, in the construction of a new nuclear power station. This project, known as Sizewell C, is anticipated to generate 10,000 employment opportunities and supply electricity to six million households.
The decision signals the probable approval of the massive facility, situated on the eastern coast of England, a location identified by the government back in 2009. A significant portion of the funding will be provided by the government itself.
EDF, a French state-owned energy company, will undertake the construction of the plant and have a stake in its ownership. The UK aims to attract additional investments for the project.
Although the construction of nuclear power plants can be costly, running into billions of dollars, they have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years in Britain and other countries. This is due to their ability to generate substantial amounts of consistent electricity while producing minimal emissions. Furthermore, these plants are seen as a means to bolster energy security.
Source: The New York Times