The UK is charging ahead with nuclear energy expansion, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer slashes outdated planning rules to fast-track new power plants across England and Wales. As part of his Plan for Change, these reforms will cut bureaucracy, unlock investment, and help Britain regain its position in the global race for clean, affordable energy.

Key Changes to Nuclear Rules:

• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) included in planning laws for the first time.
• Scrapping the eight-site limit, allowing nuclear plants to be built across England and Wales.
• Removing expiry dates on nuclear planning rules to ensure long-term investment.
• Launching a Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce to streamline regulations and boost industry growth.

This overhaul aims to create thousands of skilled jobs, secure Britain’s energy future, and drive economic growth. For too long, nuclear progress has been strangled by red tape. The UK, which pioneered nuclear energy, has fallen behind as other nations surge ahead - China is building 29 reactors, the EU has 12 at the planning stage, while Britain has just one under construction.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said "This country hasn’t built a nuclear power station in decades. We’ve been let down and left behind. Our energy security has been hostage to Putin for too long, with British prices skyrocketing at his whims. I’m putting an end to it - backing the builders of this nation and saying no to the blockers who’ve strangled our chances of cheaper energy, growth, and jobs."

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband reinforced the message

Build, build, build - that is what Britain’s clean energy mission is all about.

The reforms will attract private investment and accelerate nuclear projects, addressing past roadblocks like the 30,000-page environmental assessment required for Hinkley Point C. They also set the stage for nuclear to power industries like AI data centres, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Industry leaders have welcomed the changes:

• EDF CEO Simone Rossi: “These proposals will speed up new nuclear projects and unlock economic growth.”

• GMB General Secretary Gary Smith: “There can be no net zero without new nuclear. Now we need to see spades in the ground.”

• Great British Nuclear Chair Simon Bowen: “Expanding nuclear sites has huge potential to transform the economy.”

• Alistair Black, X-energy: “New siting opportunities will unlock billions in investment and bring clean, secure power to industry.”

• Darren Hardman, Microsoft UK: “A decarbonised grid is crucial for economic growth, and we welcome the government’s nuclear plans.”

• Tom Greatrex, Nuclear Industry Association: “A streamlined system will give investors and communities certainty to get new plants built faster.”

• Jonathan Geldart, Institute of Directors: “This is a significant step in overcoming the challenges of rebuilding nuclear at scale.”

• Mike Clancy, Prospect: “Speeding up approvals will drive investment and create thousands of well-paid jobs.”

• Cathal O’Rourke, Laing O’Rourke: “Regulatory clarity and standardisation will cut costs and speed up construction.”

• Chris Conboy, AtkinsRéalis: “Faster planning will strengthen the UK’s nuclear supply chain and boost job creation.”

• David Omand, former GCHQ Director: “Nuclear is vital for national security, and this push is a serious step forward.”

• Kim Darroch, former National Security Adviser: “Homegrown clean power is a national security priority, and nuclear is key.”

• Julian David OBE, techUK: “Reforming planning rules will drive economic growth, job creation, and energy independence.”

With a clear regulatory path, the UK can become a global leader in nuclear energy once again. By cutting unnecessary delays and empowering investors, this plan promises a cleaner, cheaper, and more secure energy future.

The time for action is now - Britain is getting back to building.

Source: www.gov.uk "Government rips up rules to fire-up nuclear power" From Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-rips-up-rules-to-fire-up-nuclear-power