Pembrokeshire MP Simon Hart is travelling to the United States on a mission to boost trade and investment in Wales. Potential investment in nuclear energy in Wales is also central to the Welsh Secretary’s itinerary with talks planned with key figures in the sector. Mr Hart’s programme includes meeting key business representatives – including from the manufacturing and energy sectors, holding talks with US political figures, visiting Plant Vogtle, Georgia, to see the construction of Westinghouse’s AP-1000 reactor, and meet senior representatives of Westinghouse Southern Nuclear and engineering firm Bechtel.
Western Telegraph 5th April 2022 read more »
The prospects of a new nuclear power station in North Wales have increased after appearing to win the backing of a UK Government minister. Welsh Secretary Simon Hart has given his backing to a proposal to build on the site of the former Wyfla nuclear plant on Anglesey. Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed Wylfa was the subject of “serious conversations” with US power and engineering giants Westinghouse and Bechtel, during his visit at the end of January. If would see two reactors built lifting UK energy capacity by 2.3 gigawatts. Engineers have been decommissioning the former power station at Wylfa, near Amlwch, which closed seven years ago. Plans to build a second power station at the site were halted in early 2019. But the Telegraph yesterday reported that the Anglesey could be the first place to host a new wave of nuclear power. The scheme would be backed by the UK Government’s Future Nuclear Enabling Fund. Westinghouse is responsible for the technology, and Bechtel, a construction company, for the build itself. Welsh secretary Simon Hart is said to have discussed the project with the US ambassador in London. He is expected to visit one of Westinghouse’s nuclear power stations during an official trip to the USA later this week. Mr Hart told the Telegraph: “Wales is best-placed to be the engine of this nuclear growth. “For large-scale nuclear, like Hinkley Point, Wylfa Newydd offers an unrivalled opportunity, and it continues to attract the attention of nuclear developers from key allies across the globe.
Daily Post 4th April 2022 read more »