Nuclear new build /
Over the next two decades the UK’s production of oil and gas will be in decline. By 2023, nine out of ten nuclear power stations that we currently rely on for 15%* of our electricity needs are likely to have closed.
Climate change is a global challenge influencing the decision to build new nuclear power stations. Carbon dioxide is the most common greenhouse gas and most of this comes from the way we produce our energy. To help tackle climate change, the UK has pledged to cut emissions of greenhouse gases by 80% by 2050. Before then we are also committed to reducing emissions by 20% by 2020 (as part of EU wide targets).
The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), the Government body responsible for looking after our energy needs, has included nuclear power as one of the ways to deal with the energy challenges faced by the UK. Nuclear power is a low-carbon form of electricity generation that can help to tackle climate change.
Nuclear power also helps increase our energy security. By having it as part of our energy mix, we become less reliant on types of electricity generation that contribute to climate change and supplies of coal and gas from other countries.
*Most recent statistics available on the BERR website at www.berr.gov.uk in: Digest of United Kingdom Energy Statistics
