Labour: Small nuclear not the answer

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are not the solution to all of the UK’s energy needs, according to Labour.

Speaking at the Nuclear New Build conference yesterday, shadow energy minister Tom Greatrex said that “nuclear has an important role in the UK’s transition to a low-carbon power sector”.

He said there are “many opportunities” for small and medium scale reactor technologies, but warned “no one, including the Chancellor as he drafts his Autumn Statement, should be fooled into thinking that small nuclear reactors are somehow the answer to all our energy needs.”

The Nuclear Industry Association told Utility Week that although it is true that there is “no silver bullet” for the UK’s energy future, the country needs to “research and develop all possible options”.

“Small reactor technology could bring a number of benefits to the UK civil nuclear industry. The inquiry on small nuclear power shows the Government’s recognition and understanding that the UK’s requirements for nuclear power may exceed current plans for new build, perhaps substantially,” a spokeswoman for the NIA said via email.

SMRs have some support on the government benches, including energy and climate change select committee members Peter Lilley and Phillip Lee.

Greatrex also reiterated Labour’s call for the Hinkley Point C deal, with a strike price of £92.50/MWh – £89.50/MWh if EDF Energy proceeds with construction of the Sizewell C nuclear plant – to be reviewed by the National Audit Office (NAO) and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

He said: “We must ensure that consumers are getting the best possible deal in the construction of Hinkley Point C.

“Reports suggest Hinkley Point C is under secret review at the Treasury reinforce the case for the NAO to thoroughly scrutinise the Hinkley deal to ensure it represents value for money.”