Description

The go-ahead for Britain’s first new nuclear power station in 20 years, Hinkley Point C, marks a major change of policy. This book traces the UK’s nuclear energy history, from the optimism of the 1950s, through the disillusionment of the 1980s to a new role for nuclear in the 21st century.

• How the dreams of cheap electricity and export success died.
• How privatizing the electricity industry revealed the wishful thinking of the nuclear sector.
• Why improved management gave the privatized nuclear stations a new lease of life.
• How the 2008 Climate Change Act unexpectedly encouraged ‘new nuclear’.
• Criticism of the industry:
  • “Why has it taken so long to get new reactors?” v. “If we wait a few years, a solar revolution will provide affordable, low-risk power”
  • Was this the right choice?
  • Concerns about the prices future consumers will have to pay.

About the Author

Simon Taylor is Director of the Master of Finance Programme at Cambridge University’s Judge Business School.

Praise For…

"Much can be learned from Britain's adventures in nuclear power. This engaging and authoritative account is essential reading for anyone who wants to reap the lessons of history."