New build

摘要

The UK currently has 16 operating nuclear reactors with a total generating capacity of 10 gigawatts of electricity (GWe). By 2023 most of these reactors are scheduled for shutdown, with the exception of Sizewell B, the UK's only pressurised water reactor, which began operation in 1995. In 2008 the Department of Energy and Climate Change published the nuclear White Paper 'Meeting the energy challenge', which stated that "new nuclear power stations should have a role to play in this country's future energy mix, alongside other low-carbon sources" and should be supported. The 'National Policy Statement for nuclear' in June 2011 confirmed eight sites that are suitable for the development of new nuclear power stations by 2025. Five of the sites have been acquired by new build developers, with three reactor designs considered.