Stories

Thu, 09 Jul 2026

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 Life of Sizewell B extended by another 20 years

The power plant was due to reach the end of its life in 2035 but will now continue until 2055.
The UK government has reached an agreement with EDF, the owner of the Sizewell B nuclear power plant in Suffolk, to extend its operation until 2055. This means that the plant will continue to produce electricity for a further 20 years, generating enough energy to meet the needs of every home in East Anglia for almost 45 years. The extension will also safeguard hundreds of jobs at the plant and allow for major upgrades and modifications. EDF plans to invest around £800m in the plant as part of the agreement, which is expected to be finalized later this year. The government has welcomed the deal, citing the importance of clean electricity generation and the potential benefits for local communities. However, critics from the campaign group Together Against Sizewell C (TASC) have expressed concerns about the environmental impact of nuclear power and the long-term storage of radioactive waste. They argue that relying on nuclear energy creates a "multi-generational financial and environmental liability" and makes the area more vulnerable to malicious attacks. The Office for Nuclear Regulation, which oversees nuclear safety in the UK, has confirmed that it will work with EDF to ensure the plant's continued operation meets strict safety standards.