ENERGY giant EDF will make its long-awaited final investment decision on the planned nuclear power station at Hinkley Point next week.

The company announced on Thursday night that it has called a meeting of its board of directors on July 28.

The agenda includes the final investment decision for the construction of two reactors at Hinkley Point C (HPC) in Somerset.

A statement said: "HPC is a unique asset for French industry as it would benefit the whole of the nuclear industry and support employment in major companies and smaller enterprises in the sector.

"This project has been the subject since 2013 of a significant sharing of information with employees and their representatives, illustrating the commitment of the company to quality social dialogue."

The French company announced in April that its works council would be consulted on the terms of the partnership with the Chinese Group CGN for the multi billion pound delayed project.

Hinkley Point C is a crucial part of the UK's future energy mix, providing 7% of the country's total electricity needs when up and running in 2025.

The final go-ahead has been delayed, raising doubts whether the power station would ever be built.

French unions have raised concerns about the cost of building the power station, but UK unions have offered strong support for the project.

EDF bosses have insisted the project will happen.


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Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark said: "It's clear that we are open for business as we come closer to sealing the deal on this major investment in British infrastructure and British jobs.

"New nuclear is an essential part of our plan for a secure, clean and affordable energy system that will power the economy throughout this century. This is a welcome decision from EDF, and we look forward to the outcome."