Commit to Sizewell C

Unite has called on the government to make a final investment decision on the building of a new nuclear power station during this quarter.

Although groundwork for Sizewell C, located on the Suffolk coast, started over a year ago, the funding needed to build it has still not been agreed.

Sizewell C would create up to 10,000 jobs and its twin reactors would generate 3.2 GW of electricity, sufficient to power six million British homes, so is a key part of the government’s energy strategy for achieving net zero by 2050.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Sizewell C is not only essential for our energy security and in order to meet the government’s net zero targets but also for UK jobs and skills. So, it is unbelievable that we are still waiting for confirmation that it will definitely go ahead.

“The government now needs to stop dancing around its handbag and commit to this project, ensuring that it will deliver skilled, well-paid and unionised jobs from day one.”

Unite has previously welcomed the government’s nuclear plans, as these will ensure energy resilience, drive forward industrial growth, and provide high-quality employment opportunities.

Unite national officer for construction Jason Poulter said: “The government has talked about how important nuclear power is for the future in terms of the economy. Now it’s time for them to put their money where their mouth is and make a final commitment to investing in Sizewell C.

“Training younger workers will give them skills that will support UK infrastructure development for the next 40 years. This project will help close the skills gap which is particularly acute in sectors such as construction.”

As well as Sizewell C and the Hinkley Point C power station which is currently being built, Unite is also calling on the government to provide funding at existing nuclear sites, including allowing for continuing research and developments and the building of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

Unite has thousands of members working on site at Hinkley Point C and also has increasing membership among the enabling works at Sizewell C, who are ensuring the site will be ready for subsequent building works once the project is formally approved.

Unite has signed a working deal with EDF over a year ago that set pay and conditions for the construction scheme, and has been supporting the project since talks to build Sizewell C started. 

By Keith Hatch