EDF has announced plans to maintain output of 37.3TWh until at least 2026.

According to a statement, plans to invest a further £1.3billion in the UK’s five generating nuclear power stations over the 2024-26 period will help sustain output at current levels, boost energy security and cut carbon emissions.

The more positive fleet outlook, and major new build programme, means EDF plans to hire over 1,000 people in 2024 across its various UK nuclear businesses.

The company continued: “Without EDF’s investment and expertise, Sizewell B power station would be the only operational nuclear power station in the UK today and nuclear would provide just 3% of the UK’s power consumption rather than the 13% it does account for. This would have meant even more reliance on gas, higher energy prices for customers and more carbon in the atmosphere.”

EDF manages the UK’s eight nuclear power stations sites (five that are generating and three that are defueling.

UK nuclear output in 2023 was 37.3TWh, a level that will be maintained until at least 2026, driven by life extensions announced for Heysham 1 and Hartlepool in March 2023.  The company says it will further extend the lives of the four generating stations, subject to inspections and regulatory approvals.

Read the full details on the EDF website.