The Government has released its Net Zero Strategy setting out how the UK will deliver on its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050. One of the key strands of the report is the commitment to decarbonise electricity generation by 2035.
In the UK, the growth in electric vehicles, and the need to move away from using natural gas for heating, means electricity demand will double by 2050. The recent gas price crisis has underscored the risks of relying on fossil fuels. At the same time, coal-fired power stations and the existing nuclear power stations in the UK are retiring which means we need new, low carbon generating capacity.
The Net Zero Strategy outlines the need for a mix of low carbon generation. From renewables and nuclear to hydrogen and Carbon Capture and Storage, Government is recognising the need to support proven technology as well as new innovation, in projects around the UK.
At Bradwell B, we welcome the Net Zero Strategy and its endorsement of new large-scale nuclear power as a critical part of decarbonising electricity generation. Bradwell B is ideally placed to play in a major part in achieving this objective. It will generate 2.2GW of electricity, enough for four million homes for at least 60 years, making it by far the single biggest contributor against climate change in Essex.
Another key theme of the Net Zero Strategy is the economic benefit of green investment. Clean Growth sectors already employ more than 84,800 people in over 12,400 businesses and contribute a massive £5.98 billion to the South East economy. Bradwell B will bring billions of pounds to the local economy in terms of jobs, spending and investment. It will provide opportunities for existing businesses in Essex and the wider East of England area as well as helping to attract new businesses to the area and inspiring whole new enterprises to develop.
For more information on the benefits of Bradwell B visit the website.