Prospect backs calls to support UK nuclear energy

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Prospect backs calls to support UK nuclear energy

Responding to Thursday’s report by the Trade and Industry Select Committee into the security of the country’s energy supply, Prospect has called on the government to make a positive commitment to keep the UK nuclear energy option open.


  • 07 Feb 2002

The union, which represents 19,000 engineers, scientists and managers in the energy industry, is backing moves for the diverse range of energy supplies across the country to be maintained.

Without a clear statement on the future of the UK’s nuclear contingent, the nuclear option will no longer be viable as the skills base seeps out of the industry, it says.

Echoing the select committee’s call for more flexible generating options, Prospect is also calling for more support for research and development into renewable energy provision.

This support is vital if the UK will be able to compete in the growing world market for environmental technologies.

Tony Cooper, joint general secretary of Prospect, said: "The government must take a strategic view on the future energy capacity and mechanisms needed to ensure the commercial market provides the necessary infrastructure.

"While we do not believe the government should dictate percentages for various fuel sources, it needs to intervene to ensure long-term security.

"And while targets are important as indicators of what is required to meet environmental goals, it is vital that they are backed by improvements to guarantee secure energy supply."