British nuclear power plant Sizewell B will generate electricity until 2055

The operator of the British nuclear power plant Sizewell B has agreed with the government on support for the plant to operate until 2055. The UK’s only pressurized water reactor unit, with an installed capacity of 1200 MWe, is set to receive 800 million pounds in investment over the next 15 years. Since it began operating in 1995, Sizewell B has already generated more than 270 TWh of low-emissions electricity.

Energy company EDF Energy announced that it had agreed with the British government on the main terms of support for Sizewell B through a Contract for Difference (CfD). The most important parameter is the strike price, set at 70,5 GBP/MWh (around 82,6 EUR/MWh or 2000 Kč/ MWh). If the price of electricity falls below this level, the government will compensate the generator for the difference; if the price is higher, the operator will pay back the difference. EDF expects both parties to sign the final contract later this year.

"Global events have repeatedly shown how important it is for the UK to secure long-term, low-carbon, domestic electricity generation that protects British households and businesses from market volatility. Extending the life of existing power plants while building new ones is central to EDF’s strategy," said Simone Rossi, CEO of EDF UK.

Sizewell B has been generating electricity since 1995, so its initial 40-year operating licence expires in 2035. With state support, EDF will extend its operating life by a further 20 years. The UK government has already committed to supporting the new Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant under the same scheme, with a strike price of 92,5 GBP/MWh.

"Nuclear power is vital to our energy security, and this extension will help generate the clean energy our country needs," said Ed Miliband, British Energy Secretary.

New investments in extended operation

EDF says the life extension will secure 900 jobs and allow the plant to generate around 180 TWh of additional electricity. The country’s only pressurized water reactor, with an installed capacity of 1200 MW, has already generated 270 TWh of electricity since it began operating. As part of EDF’s extended operation, the company plans extensive investment of 800 million pounds (around 22,7 billion Kč). The operator plans to invest the funds in an environmental monitoring system, a plant monitoring system, and the replacement of pipes, valves and pumps.

"This agreement protects consumers and strengthens the country’s energy security by continuing to provide clean, reliable energy to millions of households. By supporting Sizewell B, we are ushering in a golden age of nuclear power and keeping 900 skilled jobs in Suffolk," said Lord Vallance, Minister for Science, Innovation, Research and Nuclear Energy.