The Government recently published a consultation document on nuclear power as well as a consultation document inviting views on a proposed process for carrying out a strategic siting assessment (SSA). Both consultations close on 10 October 2007. We intend to publish a policy statement in response to both consultations by the end of the year.
The SSA consultation document proposes that, if the Government confirm their preliminary view that it is in the public interest to allow companies the option of investing in new nuclear power stations, the SSA will be launched in early 2008 and conclude in mid 2009.