Sizewell C Nuclear Project Secures Final Investment Decision, Paving Way for Clean Energy Future

February 3, 2026

The Sizewell C nuclear power project has officially received the green light with a final investment decision, marking a significant step towards bolstering the UK’s energy security and driving economic growth. This multi-billion-pound undertaking promises to deliver clean electricity for millions of homes and create thousands of jobs.

Key Takeaways

The UK government has made a substantial investment, becoming the largest shareholder in the Sizewell C project.
The project is projected to cost approximately 20% less than its predecessor, Hinkley Point C.
Sizewell C is expected to generate clean power for at least six decades, contributing significantly to the UK’s net-zero goals.
The development is anticipated to create 10,000 jobs at its peak construction phase and stimulate the national supply chain.

A New Era for Nuclear Power

The final investment decision, signed by the Energy Secretary, signals an end to years of deliberation and delay for Sizewell C. This move is central to the government’s strategy for a "new golden age of nuclear power," aiming to reduce reliance on volatile global fossil fuel markets and secure a stable, homegrown energy supply. The plant is designed to provide clean electricity for the equivalent of six million homes for at least 60 years.

Economic Boost and Job Creation

Sizewell C is poised to be a major economic driver, with projections indicating the creation of 10,000 jobs during peak construction. Furthermore, thousands of additional roles are expected to emerge within the nationwide supply chain, alongside 1,500 apprenticeships. A significant portion of the construction value, estimated at 70%, is slated to be awarded to British businesses, with an anticipated 3,500 UK companies participating in the supply chain.

Investment and Ownership Structure

The government will take an initial 44.9% stake in Sizewell C, positioning itself as the largest equity shareholder. This investment is complemented by contributions from private investors, including EDF, Centrica, La Caisse, and Amber Infrastructure. The project’s funding model aims to spread the estimated £38 billion construction cost among consumers, taxpayers, and private investors, with the goal of keeping consumer bill impacts minimal during construction.

Cost Efficiency and Future Outlook

Learning from the construction of Hinkley Point C, Sizewell C is being built as a "virtual replica," a strategy expected to reduce costs by approximately 20%. This approach aims to deliver the project more efficiently. The government’s commitment to nuclear power extends beyond Sizewell C, with plans for the biggest expansion of nuclear capacity in 70 years, including exploring new power stations and investing in advanced nuclear fuel production to reduce dependence on Russian supplies.

Energy Security and Environmental Goals

Sizewell C is a critical component of the UK’s strategy to enhance energy security and meet its net-zero targets. By providing a consistent source of low-carbon electricity, the project will help stabilize energy prices and reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. The government views nuclear power as essential for achieving energy independence and protecting households from global energy market fluctuations.