We have received an application for a nuclear site licence from NNB Generation Company (SZC) Limited, to construct and operate two EPR reactors, at its proposed development in Sizewell, Suffolk.
We will now assess the application, partly informed by our previous assessment of the EPR at Hinkley Point C - including using the relevant lessons from that assessment, while focusing on aspects specifically relevant to Sizewell C.
Shane Turner, ONR Head of EPR regulation said “In line with our enabling regulation approach, we provided advice and challenge to NNB Generation Company (SZC) Limited, setting out clear expectations of what should be in a site licence application, ensuring they understand our licensing process.
"Whilst we are satisfied that the application is sufficiently complete to proceed to assessment stage, there is still a lot of work to do - and we do not expect to reach a decision, until at least the end of 2021.
"The assessment of a site licence is a significant step, but is not itself permission to start nuclear-related construction. That requires separate regulatory permission from ONR".
Although this licence application is not part of any public consultation on the Development Consent Order, undertaken by the Planning Inspectorate or Environment Agency permits, we encourage everyone to engage with these consultations, and ensure they have their say in the process.
- Find out more about how we are regulating at Sizewell C
- Find out more about how we license new reactors
(image supplied by Sizewell C)