The first new nuclear power station to be built in the UK in over 20 years; Hinkley Point C in Somerset will provide low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes, create thousands of jobs and bring lasting benefits to the UK economy.
Construction and operation of Hinkley Point C will create 25,000 employment opportunities, up to 1,000 apprenticeships and 64% of the project’s construction value is predicted to go to UK companies.
Marking a significant milestone in the revitalisation of our nuclear power industry, Hinkley Point C will make a major contribution to the UK’s move to reduce carbon emissions. The electricity generated by its two EPR reactors will offset 9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year, or 600 million tonnes over its 60-year lifespan.
Supporting the environment
Hinkley Point C’s contribution to fighting climate change means that during its 60 years of operation it will have a large, positive impact on the environment.
Sustainability and environmental protection are also key features in the construction itself. New techniques are being used whilst a team of environmental specialists are helping to enhance local biodiversity and habitats, supporting nature to thrive on land that had been intensively used in agriculture.
The reactor at Hinkley Point C
Hinkley Point C will be the first in a new generation of nuclear power stations in the UK. The planned twin unit UK EPR is capable of generating 3,260MW of secure, low carbon electricity for 60 years.
Proposed change to fish protection measures
We have made an application to the Secretary of State for a “material change” to the Hinkley Point C Development Consent Order granted in 2013 to remove the requirement to install an acoustic fish deterrent at Hinkley Point C.
Dredging mud in the Bristol Channel
As part of the construction of Hinkley Point C, we need to dredge mud and sediment from the seabed off the Hinkley Point C site ahead of the drilling of six vertical shafts for the cooling water system. The cooling water system is a significant piece of infrastructure, which involves tunnelling more than 3km out into the Bristol Channel.
Managing Spent Fuel at Hinkley Point C
Radioactive waste and spent fuel is produced as a result of electricity generation in nuclear power stations and from the use of radioactive material in industry, defence, medicine and scientific research.
Hinkley Point Visitor Centre
At our new Hinkley Point Visitor Centre, visitors are encouraged to explore how electricity is created in a fun and interactive way. People of all ages can learn why there is an overwhelming need to produce low carbon energy and how EDF is helping Britain achieve net zero through the construction of Hinkley Point C and the use of other renewable sources such as wind and solar power.
To read frequently asked questions regarding the community and local area, please visit Hinkley Point C in the local community.

Contact us
The best way to contact us about Hinkley Point C is by completing our online enquiry form. You can also call us on 0333 009 7070 (24 hour free phone number).