Hinkley Point C isn’t just another infrastructure project—it’s a beacon of Britain’s energy future. This vast nuclear power station, currently under construction, represents one of the country’s most ambitious efforts to ensure energy security and tackle climate change. But beyond the towering cranes and the hum of industrial progress, Hinkley Point C is also a story of economic growth, job creation, and a commitment to net zero.
Andrew Cockroft, head of stakeholder relations and social impact at Hinkley Point, and Philip Hunt, Baron Hunt of Kings Heath, Minister of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, recently shed light on the project’s significance. Both men are deeply engaged in the evolving energy landscape, and their insights highlight just how crucial this nuclear development is for Britain’s future.
For Andrew, the benefits of Hinkley Point C extend far beyond providing electricity. “Today, we have Lord Hunt, who is the minister for nuclear here in the UK,” he begins. “I think the important thing that the minister will take away is the linkage that a big nuclear project like Hinkley can be a driver for net zero, protecting us from the dangerous effects of climate change, and also providing energy security.”
But there’s another layer to this story—one that affects thousands of workers and businesses across the region. Hinkley Point C will supply around 7% of the UK’s electricity when operational, but today, it’s already having a profound impact on the local economy. “On-site, we’re employing around 12,000 people, and over a third of them are from the local area,” Andrew explains. “We’re seeing a demographic shift—young people moving into Somerset rather than leaving. It’s a real boost for the local economy.”
The economic influence extends beyond employment. Businesses across the South West are reaping the rewards of Hinkley Point C’s vast supply chain, with over £5 billion already spent in the region. “We’re providing a launch pad for businesses to grow and develop,” Andrew says. “A small company based in Watchet, for example, has secured contracts with major multinational firms because of the connections we can facilitate.”
The UK’s commitment to achieving net zero by 2050 means every sector must adapt—and nuclear power is a key player in that transition. Lord Hunt is clear about Hinkley Point C’s role in this mission. “Nuclear is an absolute foundation of the country’s net zero future,” he says. “Hinkley Point C will provide low-carbon electricity to around seven million homes, reducing our reliance on imported fossil fuels.”
Energy security is a pressing concern, especially in light of recent geopolitical events. “The invasion of Ukraine was a stark reminder that we cannot always rely on energy imports from regions with geopolitical instability,” Lord Hunt continues. “That’s why it’s so important to push forward with clean power by 2030.”
While renewables like wind and solar continue to expand, nuclear offers a stable, reliable baseload of power. “Nuclear gives us resilience,” Andrew adds. “It works alongside renewables to create a robust system, ensuring a steady supply of electricity even when the sun isn’t shining, or the wind isn’t blowing.”
Despite its benefits, nuclear power has long been a topic of debate. The memories of Chernobyl and Fukushima still linger in the public consciousness, and concerns over decommissioning persist. However, both Andrew and Lord Hunt are keen to reassure the public about the safety and sustainability of modern nuclear technology.
“Nuclear is one of the safest forms of energy production available globally,” Andrew states. “The reactor being built at Hinkley Point C is one of the safest, most robust reactors ever constructed. It has multiple layers of protection, ensuring that, in the highly unlikely event of an accident, safety mechanisms are in place.”
Lord Hunt echoes this sentiment, pointing to the UK’s stringent regulatory framework. “The Office for Nuclear Regulation is completely independent and internationally recognised for its rigorous oversight,” he says. “They report to the Department for Work and Pensions, not me, ensuring that safety is always the top priority.”
Beyond safety, there’s another advantage: the skills and expertise being developed at Hinkley Point C will pave the way for future nuclear projects. “We want to replicate Hinkley’s success at Sizewell in East Anglia,” Lord Hunt says. “The lessons being learned here will allow us to build future nuclear plants more efficiently, helping to secure Britain’s energy future.”
For decades, economic development in the South West has often been overshadowed by powerhouse regions like London and the Northern industrial hubs. But projects like Hinkley Point C are changing that narrative. “People often think the South West is overlooked,” Lord Hunt says, “but Hinkley proves that’s not the case. This is one of the most important infrastructure projects in the UK, and it’s putting Somerset on the map.”
The impact isn’t just in construction—education and training opportunities are thriving as well. “The apprenticeships and training programmes at Hinkley are world-class,” Lord Hunt adds. “Visiting the local college, I’ve seen first-hand how young people are gaining skills that will serve them for life, not just in nuclear but in a range of engineering and technical fields.”
As Hinkley Point C approaches peak construction, with a workforce expected to reach 15,000, the project is at a critical juncture. But for Andrew and Lord Hunt, the message is clear—this is not just about building a power station; it’s about shaping Britain’s energy future.
“This is a project that Britain should be proud of,” Lord Hunt concludes. “It’s a model for clean energy, economic growth, and job creation. What’s happening here at Hinkley is setting the standard for what’s possible—not just in the UK, but internationally.”
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