Ex-regulator John Fingleton to drive UK nuclear energy revival
- John Fingleton has been appointed to chair a taskforce aimed at promoting investment in nuclear energy in the UK.
- The UK government is focusing on removing regulatory obstacles to encourage the construction of new nuclear power plants.
- The initiative arises in the context of rising energy prices and the need for energy security amidst geopolitical tensions.
The United Kingdom is seeking to revive its nuclear power industry, which has seen no new construction since 1995. In an effort to incentivize investment in nuclear energy, which is integral to the government’s clean energy goals, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a review to be led by John Fingleton. Previously, Fingleton served as the chief executive of the Office of Fair Trading and now leads a regulatory consulting firm. This task force was announced in February 2025 and is aimed at overcoming regulatory hurdles that have stalled new projects. The government emphasizes the necessity of nuclear power to enhance energy security and reduce dependency on external sources, such as Russia. With British energy prices suffering under geopolitical pressures, the government hopes that revitalizing the nuclear sector will lead to cheaper energy, job growth, and economic stability. The recent allocation of an additional £2.7 billion in taxpayer funding for the Sizewell C nuclear plant illustrates the commitment to nuclear development. Despite the optimism from the government, skepticism remains throughout the industry regarding the feasibility of the proposed plans. Historically, there have been considerable delays and regulatory obstacles that have hindered new nuclear power station approvals. There is apprehension about whether the promised changes will actually materialize or if long-standing issues will continue to prevail. Fingleton's upcoming task force aims to tackle these concerns by removing red tape and streamlining the approval process for new nuclear plants. The urgency of this initiative is underscored by the need for the UK to catch up with other countries, such as China and those in the European Union, which are advancing their nuclear energy projects significantly. Ultimately, the government hopes that with Fingleton's leadership, the task force will reinvigorate Britain's nuclear program and position the nation at the forefront of the global clean energy movement.