New nuclear plant mooted for North Wales
RWE Npower has acquired land and grid connections at Wylfa, Anglesey, and signalled proposals for a new nuclear power station next to the existing Magnox nuclear plant.
The energy company said it had acquired the right to connect up to 3,600MW of nuclear generation to the national grid. It has acquired options to buy farmland at Wylfa close to the existing nuclear station, but said it would consult with local people before making any firm plans for a new nuclear plant in North Wales.
Andrew Duff, chief executive of RWE npower, the UK subsidiary of the German energy giant, said: "We are serious and committed to progressing new nuclear options."
The local planning authority is currently supportive of new nuclear capacity on the island because new-build would maintain existing nuclear power employment and provide a fillip for the local economy.
Phil Fowlie, leader of Anglesey County Council, said: "Ensuring energy generation remains at Wylfa for future generations is a major priority for the county council, and we are eager to work in partnership with all potential private sector companies to ensure our 'Energy Island' aspirations are realised."
Local support for nuclear around Wylfa, where one nuclear power station is in operation but is due to shut down in the next few years, is high. The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, which owns the existing Magnox nuclear station, recently put some of its land up for sale to help potential nuclear new-build.
Read the RWE npower press release.
Roger Milne 8 January 2009
