The new plant is part of a broader clean energy strategy that includes the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) and aims to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said the investment would play a key role in tackling climate change and supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions.

Speaking ahead of the Chancellor’s spending review, Miliband said: “The truth is that we have this massive challenge to get off fossil fuels. That is the central driving ambition of the government’s clean energy superpower mission.

“All of the expert advice says nuclear has a really important role to play in the energy system. In any sensible reckoning, this is essential to get to our clean power and net zero ambitions.”

The new plant at Sizewell C is projected to provide enough power for around six million homes and marks the culmination of over a decade of planning and negotiation since the site was first identified for development in 2009.

In addition to the 10,000 roles linked to Sizewell C, the government also announced the outcome of its competition to deliver small modular reactor technology. Rolls-Royce has been selected to lead the UK’s first SMR programme, which is expected to open up further skilled job opportunities, particularly in regions with existing energy infrastructure.

Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, is expected to confirm the Sizewell C investment in a keynote speech at the GMB union congress. It forms part of a wider £113 billion capital investment package, which includes £6 billion for the nuclear submarine industry and £2.5 billion for fusion energy research.

Miliband added: “There aren’t enough industries in this country that provide good jobs at decent wages with strong trade unions. Nuclear is one of them. This is absolutely about delivering the kind of economic change right across the country.”

The new power station will be majority state-owned, a move that the government believes will improve value for money by lowering borrowing costs and returning profits to taxpayers. Miliband highlighted the symbolic nature of nuclear development at sites such as West Burton in Nottinghamshire, where a new fusion energy prototype will be built on the grounds of a former coal-fired power station.

“This is the transition in action – from an old coal-fired power station to a new fusion prototype plant,” he said.

Despite government enthusiasm, campaigners have raised concerns about the cost and delivery of the Sizewell C project. Alison Downes of Stop Sizewell C said: “Ministers have still not come clean about Sizewell C’s cost and, given negotiations with private investors are incomplete, they have signed away all leverage and will be forced to offer generous deals that undermine value for money.”

Nevertheless, the government insists the investment is essential to achieving long-term energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and creating stable employment across the UK’s energy sector.

Further announcements regarding nuclear training and recruitment pathways are expected as part of the wider clean energy transition strategy.