Westminster Hall debate on Gas and Electricity Costs - Jan 18

Jamie Stone (Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross) (LD):...Looking ahead at the UK’s future energy mix, it is crucial that investment in renewables is kept up to pace. However, I believe that the Government can also look seriously at novel solutions to age-old problems. In terms of nuclear power, small modular reactors, such as those being designed by Rolls-Royce  could provide districts with heating and electricity in areas where it is costly to receive utilities on the national grid...

Alan Brown (Kilmarnock and Loudoun) (SNP): Is there an estimated cost for these modular reactors? How much will it cost overall? Is there a policy for how nuclear waste will be dealt with?

Jamie Stone: A conversation with Rolls-Royce would be rewarding for the hon. Member. It is working up the proposals, but has some interesting thinking; I think we would be unwise not to take a good look at it...

Alan Brown:...I have a question on nuclear for the hon. Member for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross on small modular reactors. Rolls-Royce is looking for something like £30 billion in capital costs to deliver 15 or 16 small modular reactors. Again, that is money that will be lumped on to our bills. With the financing on top, the costs are eye-watering. Nuclear is not a solution; renewable energy is the solution...

To read the whole debate, CLICK HERE