Source · Select Committees · Energy Security and Net Zero Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Accepted in Part
EN-7 lacks detailed consideration of the unique socioeconomic impacts of nuclear developments.
Conclusion
As the technology-specific NPS for nuclear, the section of EN-7 dealing with socioeconomic impacts is surprisingly quiet about the factors peculiar to nuclear developments: the long construction timelines, the specialised nature of the labour required, and the enduring presence of infrastructure in host communities. These features distinguish nuclear power from other forms of energy generation and warrant more detailed consideration. (Conclusion, Paragraph 49)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees nuclear projects bring significant socioeconomic benefits, highlighting existing initiatives, and stating further criteria are not required. However, it will amend EN-7 to note some of the additional unique benefits of nuclear power that the Committee highlighted.
Government Response
Accepted in Part
HM Government
Accepted in Part
We agree with the Committee’s conclusions that nuclear projects should bring significant socioeconomic benefits to the local community. It is clear to us that projects are already doing excellent work in this space. For example, both of the UK’s existing nuclear new build projects, Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C, have extensive programmes to develop skills in the local area. Hinkley Point C has established over 1,500 apprenticeships, and its Centre of Excellence has already trained 14,300 people. The Great British Energy – Nuclear-led small modular reactor project could also support up to 3,000 jobs at peak construction. In addition, we support initiatives that introduce young people to nuclear careers, including partnerships between industry, schools, and the National College for Nuclear. These programmes, including the industry-led Nuclear Skills Plan, provide clear pathways from school into apprenticeships and technical roles, ensuring that local communities benefit from high-quality, long-term job opportunities in the nuclear industry. Further criteria on the socioeconomic benefits nuclear projects should deliver does not appear to be required as the development of local long-term skills and other local benefits are already being well addressed through the current DCO Section 106 arrangements. However, we will take this opportunity to make a change to the relevant section of EN-7 to note some of the additional unique benefits of nuclear the Committee has highlighted in their report.