The UK is at a critical point in its energy transition, striving to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 while addressing concerns about energy security.
To meet these challenges, a significant shift towards low-carbon energy sources is essential.
While renewable energy sources like wind and solar power are vital components of a sustainable energy mix, they are inherently intermittent, relying on favourable weather conditions.
This intermittency necessitates a reliable and consistent source of low-carbon electricity that can provide baseload power, ensuring a stable electricity grid regardless of weather fluctuations. Nuclear power offers precisely this solution.
As the UK electrifies its transport, heating, and industrial sectors, the demand for electricity is projected to increase substantially.
Nuclear power is uniquely positioned to meet this growing demand while minimising carbon emissions. Moreover, nuclear power plants offer the potential to provide direct heat for industrial processes, energy for green hydrogen production, and medical isotopes for cancer diagnosis and treatment, according to Gov.uk.
These applications further enhance the value of nuclear energy in decarbonising various sectors and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Furthermore, analysis indicates that nuclear power can contribute to demand or supply side flexibility in future electricity networks.
This flexibility is crucial for managing the intermittency of renewable energy sources and reducing overall costs to consumers. By providing a stable baseload supply, nuclear power enables the integration of larger amounts of variable renewable energy, ensuring a reliable and cost-effective electricity system.
However, the UK’s current nuclear fleet is ageing.
All but one of the existing reactors are scheduled to be retired by 2030, with the possibility of extending the operational life of Sizewell B.
This looming capacity gap, combined with the increasing demand for electricity, underscores the urgent need for new nuclear power plants to maintain energy security and meet the UK’s climate goals.
The UK government recognises the critical role of nuclear energy in its energy strategy. It has outlined plans to increase nuclear capacity by up to four times, reaching 24 GW by 2050. This ambition is driven by the need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, strengthen energy security, and create jobs.
The current state of Nuclear Energy in the UK
Currently, the UK generates approximately 15% of its electricity from nuclear power, with an installed capacity of about 6.5 GW.
This contribution has decreased from the 1990s when nuclear power provided around a quarter of the UK’s electricity. The decline is primarily attributed to the closure of older plants and the lack of new builds in previous decades.
In 2023, the UK consumed 0.37 exajoules of nuclear energy, representing a small share of global nuclear power consumption. The United States, for comparison, remains the world’s largest consumer of nuclear power.
The government’s commitment to revitalising the nuclear sector is evident in the construction of Hinkley Point C, the first new nuclear power station in a generation.
This project, along with the proposed Sizewell C, will significantly contribute to the UK’s nuclear capacity. To support infrastructure projects like these, the UK has established the UK Guarantees Scheme (UKGS), which helps secure finance and investment.
Nuclear energy load factor
In 2017, the UK’s average nuclear load factor was 77.4%, slightly above the European average.
The load factor represents the ratio of a power plant’s actual output over a period to its maximum possible output. A higher load factor indicates greater efficiency and reliability.
While the UK’s nuclear load factor has fluctuated over the years due to factors such as plant age and unplanned outages, the recent trend suggests an improvement in the performance and reliability of the UK’s nuclear fleet.
Types of Nuclear reactors
The UK is pursuing a diversified approach to nuclear power, encompassing both large-scale plants and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Large-Scale Nuclear Power Plants
Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C are examples of large-scale nuclear power plants that will significantly contribute to the UK’s energy mix.
In addition to these projects, the government is exploring the construction of a third large-scale plant at Wylfa in Anglesey. This site, with its existing nuclear heritage and proximity to cooling water, is considered ideal for a new gigawatt-scale plant.
Approved Reactor Designs
Four gigawatt-scale reactor designs have been formally approved for new build in the UK:
- Framatome’s EPR: A Generation III+ pressurised water reactor (PWR) offering improved safety, economic, and operational features. Two EPRs are under construction at Hinkley Point C.
- Westinghouse’s AP1000: Another Generation III+ PWR with a simplified design and enhanced safety features.
- Hitachi-GE ABWR: An advanced boiling water reactor (ABWR) operating at lower pressures and temperatures than PWRs.
- Chinese Hualong HPR1000: A Generation III PWR with a modular design and advanced safety features.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
The UK is actively pursuing the development of SMRs.
These smaller, more flexible reactors offer several advantages, including lower upfront costs, shorter construction times, and the ability to be deployed in a wider range of locations. SMRs have the potential to revitalise the UK’s nuclear industry and its supply chain, creating jobs and export opportunities.
Nuclear Strategic Plan
To effectively deliver its nuclear ambitions, the UK needs a comprehensive Nuclear Strategic Plan. This plan should translate high-level aspirations into concrete steps, addressing key questions such as:
- The optimal mix of large-scale plants and SMRs.
- Financing models for new nuclear projects.
- Development of the necessary skills and workforce.
- Strategies for SMR deployment and site selection.
Skills and qualifications needed for Nuclear jobs
The expansion of the nuclear energy sector will create a surge in demand for skilled workers across a wide range of roles, from engineers and technicians to project managers and safety specialists.
Nuclear Engineers
Nuclear engineers typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. They are responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the operation of nuclear facilities.
Key skills for nuclear engineers include:
- Analytical skills: Evaluating technical information for the safe use of nuclear energy and materials.
- Communication skills: Collaborating with other engineers and technicians.
- Computer skills: Working knowledge of programming languages and computer systems.
- Detail-oriented: Ensuring the safe operation of nuclear facilities.
- Problem-solving skills: Identifying and fixing problems in the design and maintenance of facilities.
Nuclear Technicians
Nuclear technicians typically need an associate’s degree in nuclear science or a related technology.
They work under the direction of scientists and engineers, monitoring and maintaining equipment and systems in nuclear power plants and laboratories.
Essential skills for nuclear technicians include:
- Attention to detail: Observing data from equipment to ensure safe operation.
- Communication skills: Following directions and clarifying instructions.
- Critical-thinking skills: Evaluating information and making decisions.
- Mechanical skills: Monitoring and maintaining complex equipment.
Ageing workforce and knowledge transfer
The nuclear sector faces the challenge of an ageing workforce and the need to transfer knowledge and expertise to the next generation.
Initiatives to attract younger generations to the industry, such as apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and partnerships with educational institutions, are crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the UK’s nuclear workforce.
Current and projected job vacancies
The nuclear energy sector already offers a variety of job opportunities.
Current vacancies include roles such as safety consultants, maintenance electricians, and project managers. The demand for skilled workers is expected to increase significantly as new nuclear projects get underway.
The Nuclear Skills Strategy Group’s 2023 assessment forecasted that around 2,350 new workers may be needed every year until 2030. This demand will create opportunities for graduates, apprentices, and experienced professionals from related fields.
Some of the job roles in high demand include chemists, commissioning engineers, electrical engineers, emergency planners, and project planning and control specialists.
Initiatives to train and recruit workers in Nuclear
Recognising the need to expand the nuclear workforce, the UK has launched several initiatives to train and recruit workers.
These include:
- Destination Nuclear: A collaborative initiative to attract and recruit people into the nuclear sector over the next two decades.
- Nuclear Skills Taskforce: A government-backed initiative to develop a skills roadmap for the nuclear industry, focusing on apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and upskilling existing workers. This roadmap includes specific activities such as doubling apprentice and graduate numbers by 2026, forming a future leaders scheme to develop senior personnel, and implementing upskilling initiatives for mid-career professionals joining the industry.
- Regional skills investments: Funding for local partners to identify skills gaps and provide training programs in key growth regions. For example, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have undergone extensive skills mapping and are being considered for further funding to deliver targeted skills support.
These initiatives aim to ensure that the UK has the skilled workforce needed to deliver its ambitious nuclear energy program.
Examples of these initiatives in action include training programs offered by the National College for Nuclear, which provides high-tech training in key sectors through a partnership of employers, regulators, and training providers.
Regional skills initiatives are also underway, such as those in Aberdeen and Cheshire, to support the development of a skilled workforce in areas with significant nuclear industry presence.
A bright future for Nuclear Energy and its workforce
Nuclear energy is undeniably critical to the UK’s energy future.
It provides a reliable, low-carbon source of electricity that is essential for achieving net-zero emissions, ensuring energy security, and meeting the growing demand for electricity.
The expansion of the nuclear sector will create a wealth of job opportunities, driving economic growth and contributing to the UK’s clean energy transition.
While challenges remain, the government’s commitment to nuclear energy, coupled with initiatives to train and recruit a skilled workforce, paints a bright future for the UK’s nuclear industry.
However, a stable policy and regulatory environment is crucial for attracting investment in new nuclear projects. Public engagement and addressing concerns about nuclear safety and waste disposal are also essential for building public trust and support.
International collaborations play a vital role in sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources, enabling the UK to benefit from global advancements in nuclear technology.
Looking ahead, a long-term vision for the UK’s nuclear industry is needed, encompassing research and development, skills development, and supply chain growth.
This vision should address the challenges of an ageing workforce, promote diversity and inclusion in the nuclear sector, and ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of nuclear innovation.
By pursuing a comprehensive and sustainable approach to nuclear energy, the UK can secure a cleaner, more reliable, and prosperous energy future for generations to come.
Interested in the Nuclear sector or looking to expand your team?
At Astute, we understand that the success of this ambitious nuclear expansion hinges on the talent driving it.
As a specialist in technical recruitment, our team is deeply embedded in the nuclear sector, helping businesses secure skilled professionals to meet their evolving workforce needs.
From Project Managers and Design Engineers to EC&I Engineers and Commissioning Engineers, Astute connects exceptional talent with opportunities across the industry.
Whether you’re a company navigating the challenges of new projects or a professional seeking a career in this dynamic sector, we are here to help.
For Employers: If your organisation requires top-tier talent to drive your nuclear initiatives, get in touch today to discuss how we can support your recruitment needs.
For Job Seekers: If you’re ready to take the next step in your nuclear career, explore our current vacancies or reach out to discuss your aspirations.
About the author
Rob Chatfield is an Account Consultant within Astute People’s Nuclear team, specialising in connecting skilled professionals with exceptional opportunities in the UK nuclear sector. With a deep understanding of the industry’s workforce needs, Rob is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between top talent and leading organisations.