Uranium enrichment company Urenco has joined a consortium of businesses and organisations from across the UK nuclear supply chain calling on the government to move forward with plans for the planned Sizewell C nuclear power plant in Suffolk.

The consortium will be managed by EDF Energy, making the case for Sizewell C and the need for nuclear in the UK’s energy mix. This aligns with Urenco’s vision of making a valuable contribution to zero carbon electricity generation around the world, the company noted.

The Sizewell C project is ready to kick-start the UK’s green economic recovery with 70% of Sizewell C's construction value going to UK companies, and providing opportunities for high quality jobs and apprenticeships, said Urenco.

Laurent Odeh, Urenco’s chief commercial officer, said: “This is a wonderful chance to be part of driving this critical infrastructure project forward. He added: "There is a great deal of support across the UK from businesses, trade unions and the supply chain who are all ready to seize the opportunity.  Sizewell C is about the future of our industry and will represent a step change towards net zero in the UK, providing great prospects for the economy."

In June, the UK Planning Inspectorate accepted a Development Consent Order application for Sizewell C for review. The same month, the UK Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR)  received an application for a nuclear site licence from NNB Generation Company (SZC) Limited to construct and operate two EPR reactors at Sizewell in Suffolk. The review process for both applications is expected to take 15 to 18 months, EDF Energy said. The company expects to make a final investment decision on the project late next year, or in early 2022.

Photo: Proposed Sizewell C nuclear power plant (Credit: EDF Energy)