Sizewell C Nuclear Plant Secures Green Light with Major Investment

January 27, 2026

The Sizewell C nuclear power plant has officially received the green light and a significant multi-billion-pound investment, marking a pivotal moment for the UK’s energy security and its commitment to clean energy. This decision paves the way for a new era of nuclear power generation in the country, promising substantial job creation and long-term energy cost savings.

Key Takeaways

The UK government has made a final investment decision, becoming the largest shareholder with a 44.9% stake.
The project aims to deliver clean power for approximately six million homes.
It is expected to create 10,000 jobs at peak construction and support thousands more in the supply chain.
The plant is projected to cost around 20% less than Hinkley Point C.
The government anticipates annual system savings of £2 billion once operational.

A New Era for Nuclear Power

The government’s final investment decision for Sizewell C signifies a major step towards achieving a ‘golden age’ of nuclear power in the UK. This initiative is central to the government’s plan to reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel markets and secure a stable, homegrown energy supply for decades to come. The project is expected to deliver clean electricity for at least 60 years, contributing significantly to the nation’s energy security and economic growth.

Investment and Ownership

The multi-billion-pound deal sees the government taking a substantial equity stake, making the British people co-owners of the plant. Alongside the government, other key investors include EDF, Centrica, La Caisse, and Amber Infrastructure. This diverse investment model aims to spread the estimated £38 billion construction cost across consumers, taxpayers, and private investors, with measures in place to limit the impact on consumer bills during the construction phase.

Economic and Employment Boost

Sizewell C is poised to be a major engine for economic growth, creating an estimated 10,000 jobs during its peak construction phase. Furthermore, thousands of additional jobs are anticipated within the nationwide supply chain, with a commitment that 70% of the construction value will be awarded to British businesses. The project also plans to offer 1,500 apprenticeships, fostering skills development for the future workforce.

Cost Efficiency and Future Outlook

Learning from the construction of Hinkley Point C, Sizewell C is designed to be built for approximately 20% less cost by replicating its design. This approach, coupled with innovative financing, aims to ensure value for money. The project is part of a broader, ambitious nuclear program, which includes the development of small modular reactors, positioning the UK for significant new nuclear capacity in the coming decades.