EDF’s UK subsidiary, EDF Energy, announced on 9 March that it would extend the life of its Hartlepool and Heysham 1 nuclear power stations until 2026. This decision comes after a thorough evaluation of the safety and technical viability of the facilities.
A decision that supports the UK’s energy security
The UK’s nuclear power plants operated by EDF Energy provide about 13% of the country’s electricity, and this life extension will help maintain their output. EDF Energy also announced that it would invest £1 billion ($1.2 billion) over the period 2023-2025 to support UK nuclear power plants in their production.
Britain aims to meet about 25% of electricity demand with nuclear power by 2050, with the goal of achieving a net zero emissions climate target by the same date. This decision by EDF Energy is therefore in line with the country’s climate objectives and helps to strengthen the UK’s energy security in these difficult times.
A context of rising electricity and gas prices
Britain, like the rest of Europe, has experienced high electricity and gas prices over the past year due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This highlighted the importance of investing in low-carbon energy sources, such as nuclear power, to enhance the country’s energy security.
Efforts to increase nuclear energy production
All but one of the UK’s nuclear power stations are expected to close by 2030. Construction of the first new power plant in more than 20 years, EDF’s Hinkley Point C, is not expected to be commissioned until 2027. However, Britain is looking to increase low-carbon nuclear power generation to shore up its electricity supply and meet its climate goals.
Matt Sykes, managing director of EDF’s generation business, said, “Providing affordable, zero-carbon electricity in any weather has never been more important than it is today.” EDF Energy’s continued investment in the UK’s nuclear fleet since 2009 is helping to underpin the UK’s energy security in these challenging times.
