Bright future for West Burton A as site looks to move from fossil fuel to fusion

EDF’s West Burton A site in Nottinghamshire is to host the UK’s first prototype fusion energy power plant.

The decision to site the new plant there was announced on Monday, October 3 by Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Jacob Rees-Mogg.

Following the announcement, the UK Atomic Energy Agency (UKAEA) team arranged an event at the site to unveil an artist’s impression of the new site and to share more information about fusion technology and the prototype reactor which will be constructed at site when the coal-fired station closes.

West Burton has now entered its final winter, following a request from the Government to provide emergency back up to UK power supplies from its two remaining units. From the beginning of April 2023 the site will be in full decommissioning. As West Burton moves through decommissioning and then demolition, the UKAEA will formally begin its journey to fusion which will spur investment in the area, a range of educational opportunities, jobs, industry collaboration and ultimately clean energy.

Andy Powell, EDF’s Plant Manager for West Burton, said: “Our team on site, and in the wider EDF Generation business, has worked tirelessly to secure this project which we could not have done without colleagues in the local community, industry, education and local, parish and county councils. Moving from fossil to fusion technology is an exciting prospect that connects directly to the company’s purpose, to Help Britain Achieve Net Zero. This scheme will also secure jobs in the local area for decades to come. Our commitment in securing a just transition for the workforce and communities connected to coal has now been realised and I can’t wait to see it all come to life.”