Good return for powering homes remains key to Hinkley C go-ahead (From This is The West Country)

Good return for powering homes remains key to Hinkley C go-ahead

1:00pm Monday 18th February 2013 in News By Matthew Colledge

EDF Energy says getting a decent price from the Government for its electricity remains the last piece of the jigsaw to ensure Hinkley C goes ahead.

The firm remained tight-lipped this week on national media reports that it has asked the Treasury to underwrite its new nuclear project, following the withdrawal of a major backer, Centrica.

However, EDF referred to previous comments from its chief executive, Vincent de Rivaz, on talks with the Government on the Contract for Difference – a guaranteed price the firm will receive for its energy, throughout the lifetime of its nuclear power stations.

Mr de Rivaz said: “This Contract for Difference is now more than ever the key to attracting investors and to unlock the funding for this project which will give the UK the secure, low carbon energy it needs for the future.”

The Weekly News understands the CFD is unlikely to be agreed before March 19, the cut-off point by which time Energy Secretary Ed Davey will have announced whether or not Hinkley C has planning approval.

Meanwhile, Sedgemoor District Council has written to organisations in Somerset that will have a part to play in the construction of Hinkley C to make sure they are ready.

Council leader Duncan McGinty said: “This council has always supported the project providing the planning conditions are in place to ensure we make the most of the opportunities locally and keep the impacts of construction to a minimum.

“We are keen that, if the go ahead is given, we can get on with it as soon as possible and ensure there are no delays or blockages preventing this vitally important project from being finished on time.”