Energy Secretary Ed Miliband’s plan for a “golden age” of nuclear energy is already looking tarnished due to outdated technology, unfit regulation and lack of delivery. The proposed small modular reactors (SMRs) are a decade away from existence in the West, while military reactors are not designed for civilian safety or cost-efficiency.
The UK needs larger-scale reactors like the Korean APR1400 design, which has successfully completed eight units with an average construction time of 8.5 years and a lower cost than expected. However, current regulations, including the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR), are overly complex and hinder the development of new nuclear projects.
The regulatory regime is in need of reform, with unnecessary radiation exposure requirements and excessive environmental statements slowing down approvals. Britain’s energy crisis demands bold action, including a 5-6 large-scale reactor program and reforms to the regulatory landscape.
To succeed, Miliband needs to commit public funds for construction, re-finance once built, and offer shares to the public. This would be a profitable strategy, with lower financing costs and high profitability from running nuclear reactors. The government can also borrow cheaper than the private sector, making it an attractive option for investors.
Source: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/06/10/miliband-nuclear-plans-wrong-heres-what-we-should-do