Britain’s biggest net zero project

EDF is the largest producer of zero carbon electricity in Britain. It is investing in wind, solar and nuclear to create a secure and affordable supply, which will allow the UK to cut its dependency on gas.

tion to imported gas – and fast.

Amid the gloom, there is some reason to have hope. Britain is leading the way in moving towards clean, home-produced energy.

EDF and other companies are investing in all types of low-carbon power. Over the New Year, strong winds meant that there were times when nuclear and renewables produced almost 90% of our electricity.

Of course, the wind doesn’t always blow, and the energy crisis has driven action to get more reliable nuclear power. At Hinkley Point C, we know getting the plant finished is more urgent than ever. When it is switched on, it will produce 3,200 megawatts of power, making it capable of supplying 6 million homes. Compared to current electricity prices, Hinkley Point C would be saving consumers £4bn a year in energy bills if it were in operation now.

EDF’s plans to build another power station at Sizewell C, in Suffolk, have also recently been backed by direct government investment.

For businesses in the South West, the building of nuclear plants presents an abundance of opportunity. Mega projects require mega supply chains – for materials, services, and expertise. Around 1,400 businesses in the South West are benefitting from Hinkley Point C contracts, which has so far generated £4.2 billion for the local economy.

Nuclear means jobs, too. Around 8,500 people are working at the Hinkley Point C site every day, and 22,000 jobs are being supported by the project across Britain. It is an opportunity for local people to upskill or start new careers. Last year, we hit our target of training 1,000 apprentices during the power station’s construction phase –

Two new nuclear reactors are under construction at Hinkley Point C in Somerset - the first in a new generation of nuclear power stations in Britain.

The power station will generate low-carbon electricity for 6 million homes and will help to avoid the emission of around 9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year.

New analysis has also confirmed that the lifetime CO2 emissions from the electricity generated will be even lower than wind and solar power.

Sustainability and environmental protection are also key features in the construction.

Alongside wind and solar, Hinkley Point C will be crucial in securing Britain’s energy supply and helping the country hit net zero, avoiding the worst impacts of climate change.