UK Nuclear Sector ‘In Advanced Discussions’ On Range Of Ambitious Proposals

27 Nov (NucNet): The UK’s nuclear sector is in advanced discussions with the government on a range of ambitious proposals to increase competitiveness, a policy paper published today by the government says. The Industrial Strategy white paper says details of discussions between the nuclear sector and the government will be announced in the coming weeks, but they focus on how substantial cost reductions can be achieved across the UK’s new build and decommissioning programmes. The sector’s proposals cover the supply chain, nuclear R&D, and skills, where the aim of the deal is to help deliver the diverse workforce needed for the future. The white paper says the UK’s nuclear sector is integral to increasing productivity and driving growth. Nuclear is a vital part of the country’s energy mix and will provide low-carbon power now and into the future. The safe and efficient decommissioning of the UK’s nuclear legacy is an area of world-leading expertise, the paper adds. It says: “We will continue to work closely with the nuclear and offshore wind industries to further drive down the costs of clean power, while building UK supply chains.” Lord Hutton, chairman of the London-based Nuclear Industry Association, said the white paper recognises the wider economic contribution the nuclear industry can continue to make across the UK. He said the industry has made significant progress with government towards agreeing a deal which will “maximise opportunities and help improve productivity, foster innovation and reduce cost”. The white paper is online: http://bit.ly/2AaDJJZ