A REPORT commissioned by the government on how to achieve clean energy by 2030 has suggested that Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) could compensate for any delay to power generation at Hinkley Point C. 

The National Energy System Operator (NESO)’s report, titled ‘Clean Power 2030’ provides advice to the Labour government on how to achieve the “huge challenge” of clean power by the end of the decade.

Nuclear power plays an important role, along with renewable energy sources, which together provided for 62% of demand in 2023. But the report outlines the necessity for significant growth in power generation in order to achieve the 2030 target.

One challenge is that most of Great Britain’s existing nuclear power plants are due to retire before 2030. Some are being considered for life extension, subject to approval from the Office for Nuclear Regulation.

As a result, the NESO assumes that it “will see a reduction in Great Britain’s nuclear capacity from 6.1 GW in 2023 to 3.1 to 4.1 GW in 2030, with scope for more new build beyond 2030.”

Hinkley Point C – the first nuclear power plant to be constructed in Britain since - was originally expected to be operational by 2025. It is now expected to be operational between 2029 to 2031.

Stakeholders contributing to the NESO report also outlined how SMRs could be used to “compensate for any shortfall should plant life extensions not proceed as we have assumed and/or if Hinkley Point C does not begin generation until after 2030.”

In its July 2024 manifesto, the Labour Party pledged to ensure that new nuclear power stations and Small Modular Reactors will play a role in helping the UK achieve energy security and clean power.

The previous Conservative government pledged £215 million for the development of SMRs. Potential locations for SMRs include Cumbria, Lancashire, Hartlepool, Gloucester and North Wales.