Nuclear renaissance: Britain’s journey toward clean energy and security

As January crawled to a close, many across the nuclear industry had at least one calendar highlight to keep them going: the fourth annual Nuclear Week in Parliament.

With 20 events taking place over three days, parliamentarians and industry stakeholders came together to discuss the huge potential of nuclear power in delivering clean energy, enhancing energy security, driving economic growth, and creating jobs.

Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, kicked off proceedings stating that Britain is on the ‘brink of a nuclear renaissance’, and it was clear that enthusiasm and readiness for the next chapter is high. The coming months will be pivotal to this ambition, with the Final Investment Decision (FID) for Sizewell C expected in the Spring Spending Review and Great British Nuclear also set to determine which SMR technologies will receive government backing.

Amid discussions on investment, jobs, skills, and decommissioning, one theme stood out: the nuclear industry recognises the urgent need to work on its reputation - not just secure government support. With timescales and costs being revised for Hinkley Point C (which was impacted by the pandemic, the world economy and the price of raw materials, it is easy for those looking at the numbers to question the rationale of more additions to the UK’s nuclear fleet. 

The massive benefit and advantage Sizewell C in Suffolk has, is that the station is a replica of what is being built in Somerset. The learning and efficiencies from Hinkley Point C not only benefit Hinkley Point C’s progress, which is seeing efficiencies of up to 30% between the construction of the second reactor building compared to the first, but also benefit the construction of Sizewell C. 

With energy security and the economic benefits of the Net Zero transition firmly at the forefront of the government’s agenda, the need for nuclear to provide baseline 24/7 energy has never been clearer and is more widely accepted now than at any time in the last twenty years.

Engagement was a key theme of the week. While significant discussions took place within Westminster’s halls, there was also a clear acknowledgment that a major challenge lies outside the political sphere. Public support can make or break large infrastructure projects and gaining the trust of local communities, especially in areas earmarked for new nuclear plants or SMRs, will require more than fulfilling statutory requirements and using technical jargon. The industry must prioritise honest, open conversations and demonstrate the lessons learned from past projects. As seen in the Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C community forums, building acceptance and understanding among host communities is a long-term commitment.

Community engagement means little without a clear, actionable plan. However, progress requires overcoming familiar roadblocks: complex planning processes, lengthy approvals, and uncertainty around funding models. If the UK is to achieve a true nuclear renaissance, learning from what has gone before to cut through red tape will be as critical as the investment itself.

In 2025 the nuclear industry stands at a crucial juncture, enjoying more political backing than it has had in years. But the road ahead is not without its challenges. Winning public support, streamlining planning, and maintaining momentum will be key to ensuring that this ‘nuclear renaissance’ becomes a reality.