The Chinese nuclear developer behind three of the UK’s planned new nuclear power plants has warned that Brexit has cast doubt over the nuclear cooperation between China, France and Britain. CGN Power has raised concern over the UK’s departure from a key pan-European nuclear group, Euratom, as it prepares its submission for the UK government’s rigorous assessment of China’s homegrown reactor design. In exchange for taking a minority stake in EDF Energy’s £36bn plans to build nuclear reactors at Hinkley Point C and Sizewell B, the UK Government has left the door open for a Chinese-designed reactor at Bradwell in Essex – despite security concerns over a Chinese company holding control of key British infrastructure. China hopes that by gaining a foothold in the UK market, considered one of the world’s most stringent safety regimes, it will be able to grow its international nuclear presence. But Dongshan Zheng, the senior vice president of CGN, said at an industry event that the decision to leave Euratom as part of Brexit will “create some uncertainties” for its UK plans. MPs are due to report on the UK’s energy priorities in the Brexit negotiations early next week but the findings could be undermined by the upcoming snap election which will force an overhaul of parliamentary committees this summer.
Telegraph 28th April 2017 read more »
Two articles in a series discussing Britain’s Trident nuclear programme and the influence it may be having on the country’s energy policy by Philip Johnstone and Andrew Stirling
Sustainable security 10th April 2017 read more »
Sustainable Security 12th April 2017 read more »
Those who claim nuclear is dead, at least for Europe, because of its high costs and lack of public support are wrong, writes Tim Yeo, Chairman of the pro-nuclear group New Nuclear Watch Europe (NNWE). Despite recent financial troubles besetting certain parties in the nuclear sector, there are competitive vendors such as Rosatom and Kepco and competitive projects out there. Key for European countries considering building new nuclear plants is to choose the right technologies.The good news is that vendors of proven technology are demonstrating they can deliver nuclear power at competitive prices for electricity produced. There is a choice of nuclear technologies, and the benefits in terms of cost, security of supply, tackling climate change and above all safety are clear. Nuclear does not cost the earth. Governments should not shy away from the nuclear option – it is simply a matter of making the right choice.
Energy Post 27th April 2017 read more »