UK: Nuclear power consultation launched

A five-month consultation on the “significant role” new nuclear power stations could play in cutting emissions and diversifying energy supplies was launched in the UK today.

British ministers made clear they want new nuclear power stations to be built, sparking a fresh row with environmental campaigners who accused the government of peddling a “failed policy”.

Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling said it was the government’s preliminary view that it was in the public interest to give private energy firms the option of investing in new nuclear building projects.

A 20-week public consultation started today and will run until October 10.

Mr Darling also told MPs that the amount of electricity from renewable energy will triple to 15% by the year 2015, as he published the Energy White Paper.