The Sizewell C Project application has been granted development consent by the secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy. 

The application involves the construction of a new nuclear power station producing reliable, low-carbon electricity to help Britain achieve net zero. It is intended that Sizewell C will generate enough low-carbon electricity to supply six million homes.

The application was submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for consideration by NNB Nuclear Generation (SZC) Limited on 27 May 2020 and accepted for examination on 24 June 2020.

Following an examination during which the public, statutory consultees and interested parties were given the opportunity to give evidence to the examining authority, recommendations were made to the secretary of state on 25 February 2022.

This is the 114th Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project and 69th energy application to have been examined by the planning inspectorate within the timescales laid down in the planning act 2008.

Sarah Richards, the Planning Inspectorate’s chief executive, said: “The Planning Inspectorate has now examined more than 100 nationally significant infrastructure projects since the Planning Act 2008 process was introduced, ensuring local communities have had the opportunity of being involved in the examination of projects that may affect them.

“This examination took place during the Covid-19 pandemic and its associated restrictions and the examining authority worked hard to ensure that local people, the local authorities – East Suffolk District and Suffolk County Council - and other interested parties were able to fully participate.

“The examining authority listened and gave full consideration to local views and the evidence gathered during the examination before making its recommendation.”

Christophe Junillon, head of power new build at Atkins, welcomed the decision, saying: “Clean, reliable nuclear energy is vital to deliver security of supply and a resilient net zero energy system. Sizewell C is well positioned to play a major part in decarbonising the UK and today’s development consent order decision reaffirms its potential.

“We know that a fleet approach to building new nuclear plants is the best way to reduce costs and maximise efficiencies. Today’s decision will help to ensure that the learnings and supply chains established at Hinkley Point C can transfer seamlessly to Sizewell C.”