Why nuclear power must play a part in UK energy security
From environmental technology to CAPEX project management, FEG Global’s expertise supporting power and nuclear clients is rapidly growing. Here, Managing Director, Chris Williams, explains why he thinks nuclear must play a crucial part in UK energy security and why mind-power must also be part of the mix…
The UK Government has recognised that going forward, nuclear energy must play a key role within a secure, low-carbon energy mix… and the North East of England is rapidly becoming a strategic location for this proposition.
With industry figures from the sector coming together this week in Durham (NOF Nuclear North East England conference – 21 May 2025) to discuss this potential and what it could mean for the region, it is crucial that we understand what a net zero future may look like in an ever-changing world, and how we can support its design, test, engineering, manufacturing, build and operational needs.
Exciting projects are proposed – from a components plant to a privately funded nuclear power station, and with our own expertise delivering projects within the power and nuclear energy sectors – from consultancy support to full turnkey schemes, FEG Global is well placed within the North East supply chain.
This ventilation system was for new block and bleed gas valves for a boiler. Designed to meet ATEX legislation, the system had to remove any threat of gas leakage resulting in explosive atmosphere conditions. Completed on-time and on-budget in strict site conditions and during scheduled outage works.
There is much talk in the sector about which energy source is best able (and placed) to respond to the country’s needs, and often traditionally renewable-generated electricity or hydrogen fall into focus.
As an engineering firm operating for more than 20 years, a blended approach to energy production in the UK is certainly right. With an increasing emphasis on emerging technologies and AI to drive economic growth, the huge energy requirements that come with it mean it is nuclear energy that (I believe) should emerge as a predominant power source. That, and it is also well placed to meet needs that will grow exponentially in the coming years.
As well as improving the UK’s energy security (and self-sufficiency), it could potentially lower costs too.
Wholesale electricity prices in the UK, at present, are determined by the price of gas due to the country’s reliance on it as a backup source in the event of poor generation from renewable sources.
However, by investing more in nuclear, we can free ourselves of being tied into the price demands of wholesale gas suppliers and operators and become more competitive.
The world of AI is here and with it comes more and more data centres that will place unprecedented demand on energy networks. It is nuclear that can produce – on scale – the volume of power needed to support this new industrial revolution.
A commitment to deliver requires a long-term view and with it, investment in infrastructure. That means a financial commitment to power infrastructure unlikely to deliver energy production in the current political cycle – this is not an easy choice for politicians, but a necessary one if this country is ever going to find sustainable solutions to meet its growing energy needs.
The answers to many questions we face can be provided within our innovative business communities – large and small. Having worked on nuclear projects, the skills, knowledge and value that companies like ours can bring to projects is immense. By applying proven industry knowledge means that we can drive new processes, efficiencies, technologies and optimum outcomes for clients.
We have to find more effective ways of engaging with the private sector to find solutions to some of the greatest challenges we face as a nation… this is where so much innovation exists. And whilst there is no silver bullet and with the UK’s energy needs changing, there is a dynamism despite the global picture being volatile.
In an uncertain world, the path to stable and sustainable energy supply is in our hands and minds. It is mind-power that will find the way.”