Sizewell C Gets Green Light: UK Nuclear Plant Approved After La Caisse Investment
The UK government has officially approved Sizewell C, a major new nuclear power project in the country. Situated in Suffolk, the plant will generate electricity sufficient to supply approximately 6 million households. It’s a big step toward cleaner, more reliable energy for the country.
What’s even more exciting? The Canadian pension fund La Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ) has become one of the key investors in the project. This shows that international investors are supporting the future of the UK’s energy sector.
We’re seeing real progress. With Sizewell C now moving ahead, the UK is building stronger energy security and moving closer to its Net Zero 2050 goals. It also promises more jobs, better infrastructure, and a stable power supply without carbon emissions.
We analyze what Sizewell C is, why the latest investment is important, and how it supports the UK’s broader plan for clean and reliable energy.
What Is Sizewell C?
Sizewell C’s next-generation nuclear plant proposed for construction in eastern England. It features two European Pressurised Reactors (EPRs). Together, they offer a capacity of around 3.2 GW, enough clean electricity for 6 million homes. Construction began in 2023, with plans to launch operations in the mid-2030s. This project uses the same EPR design as Hinkley Point C but is about 20% less expensive due to better planning and funding strategies.
Role of La Caisse Investment
La Caisse (CDPQ) will invest around £1.7 billion, securing a 20% stake in Sizewell C. Their long-term approach fits nuclear projects well. Along with Amber Infrastructure, they form the largest private investment block, providing around 25–30% of the needed capital. La Caisse’s commitment shows strong international trust in UK clean energy.
UK Government Approval & Policy Support
On July 22, 2025, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband approved the final investment, officially giving the go-ahead for the Sizewell C project. The government will hold the biggest share, 44.9% equity, with funding coming from the National Wealth Fund and a £5 billion debt guarantee from Bpifrance. The deal spreads risk among public investors, private firms, and consumers using a Regulated Asset Base (RAB) model. This is key to meeting the UK’s Net Zero 2050 and 2030 decarbonisation goals.
Strategic Economic & Energy Benefits
Sizewell C will:
- Provide secure low-carbon electricity permanently, reducing reliance on gas imports.
- Create 10,000 jobs during construction and offer 1,500 apprenticeship opportunities.
- Bring £2 billion annual system savings once operating.
- Funnel about 70% of its construction spending to British businesses, boosting regional supply chains.
These steps will aid economic growth, enhance energy independence, and stabilise costs for future generations.
Alignment with UK’s Nuclear Strategy
Sizewell C is the UK’s second newly planned nuclear power station in more than two decades, coming after the development of Hinkley Point C. It shapes a bold CPU-powered green energy future. Plans include SMRs (Small Modular Reactors) by Rolls-Royce. The UK is working toward a nuclear revival as part of its Plan for Change and broader clean energy strategy.
Technical & Operational Aspects
Sizewell C will use two 1,630 MW EPR reactors, crafted by Framatome. These are efficient, safe, and mirror Hinkley’s design, helping reduce cost and save time. It will run for about 60 years, offering uninterrupted, reliable energy, unlike renewables that depend on weather.
Conclusion
Sizewell C’s approval marks a turning point. With La Caisse’s £1.7 billion backing, plus EDF, Centrica, Amber, and public investment, the UK is set to build a homegrown path to cleaner, safer energy. We’re moving toward better grid security, lower carbon, and strong economic gains. As construction unfolds, Sizewell C will define British energy and climate progress for decades.
FAQS:
The UK government approved the Sizewell C project. It will be built in Suffolk. This nuclear plant will help produce clean energy and reduce the country’s carbon emissions.
The government approved the start of construction for Sizewell C. Big investors joined the project. It’s a major step toward boosting energy supply and fighting climate change.
Sizewell C is a proposed nuclear power station set to be built in England. It will have two reactors. The facility will supply power to millions of homes while producing low carbon emissions.
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This content is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Always conduct your research.