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Written question asked by Mike Wood (Conservative) on Thursday, 18 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 22 June 2026. It was answered by Michael Shanks (Labour) on Friday, 26 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Nuclear Fusion and Nuclear Power: Innovation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of alignment with EU Single Electricity Market regulations on the ability of the UK to innovate on commercial nuclear (a) fission and (b) fusion technologies.

Answer

The detailed scope of alignment will be determined through negotiations.

The Secretary of State’s priority is to drive delivery in the sector, including through the Government’s approach to nuclear fission—taking a Final Investment Decision on Sizewell C, driving forward the Small Modular Reactor programme, launching the Advanced Nuclear Framework, and unlocking delivery through the Nuclear Regulatory Review.

The UK’s fusion strategy, backed by over £2.5bn of investment, is accelerating growth of the UK fusion industry to capture the economic and strategic benefits of fusion, through a globally competitive supply chain; UK based power plant design, subsystems and systems integration capabilities; and demonstrating commercial viability through STEP.

This government is developing world-leading nuclear expertise and supply chains and unlocking a golden age of nuclear while supporting thousands of good jobs in our communities.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
11134
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Electricity Innovation Nuclear power Regulation Nuclear fusion UK relations with EU
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk