Industry leaders say projects like the one announced at West Burton show the Midlands would be an "ideal" place to support the growth of nuclear energy in the UK. The UK's first ever nuclear fusion energy plant is set to be based at the West Burton A power station near Retford.
The Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) site is due to become operation in 2040 and is expected to create 10,000 jobs. But a new organisation has now been set up that aims to promote the potential for the Midlands to host more nuclear energy projects in future, bringing more jobs and economic development to the region.
Sir John Peace, the Chairman of Midlands Engine, said: "The launch of Midlands Nuclear signifies our region's growing expertise in a sector that has the ability to strengthen the UK's energy security, and create and support thousands of high-skilled jobs.
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"The Midlands has a renowned industrial heritage which, along with a bedrock of companies playing a leading role in nuclear and the recent decision to site UKAEA's STEP Fusion site in West Burton, means there is vast potential for Midlands Engine partners to use the development of new nuclear technologies as a platform for regional economic growth."
The establishment of Midlands Nuclear was one of seven key recommendations from the Midlands Nuclear Report, unveiled in January by Energy Research Accelerator (ERA) and Midlands Engine. The report proposes action to deliver regional economic benefits from the West Burton project, as well as examining sites, skills and supply chains in the Midlands to support the growth of nuclear in the area.
Lord Ravensdale, the Chair of Midlands Nuclear, said: "It's fantastic to see a renewed national focus on nuclear power technologies, which are a proven, cheap, low carbon domestic energy source. The Midlands has some of the finest nuclear R&D, skills and industrial capacity in the world, making us the ideal candidate to support this rapidly expanding sector."
Faye McAnulla, Programme Director at the Energy Research Accelerator, added: "From specialist machinery to the safe disposal of waste, the formation of Midlands Nuclear sets out a clear path for our region to capitalise on the economic and net zero advantages of nuclear.
"The research and manufacturing expertise found across the Midlands makes it the perfect site for the expansion of the UK's nuclear capacity, and we look forward at ERA to working with organisations across the region and the wider UK to further develop new nuclear technologies, and ensure we make the most of our existing capabilities."
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