The UK government is reportedly in negotiations to buy back three nuclear sites from French energy giant EDF as part of its strategy to drive a major expansion of nuclear power and strengthen national energy security.
Officials confirmed that discussions are ongoing regarding the purchase of Bradwell B, Heysham, and Hartlepool sites. A French government representative stated talks had taken place but stressed that no final decision has yet been made. Two senior UK industry sources, speaking anonymously, also confirmed the negotiations to POLITICO.
Mixed Signals from UK Government
Although French officials and UK industry insiders confirmed the talks, the UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero publicly denied recognising the claims after the story’s publication. A decisive moment may come during the planned UK-France summit in July, where further progress could be announced.
The move aligns with the UK’s ambition to deliver the most significant revival of its nuclear energy sector in decades. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has championed nuclear power as a key part of the country’s transition to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, alongside wind, solar, hydrogen, carbon capture, and battery storage solutions.
Strategic Value of the Sites
The three sites in question—Bradwell B, Heysham, and Hartlepool—are considered strategic assets for future nuclear projects. Heysham and Hartlepool currently house operational nuclear power plants, both set for decommissioning between 2027 and 2030. Bradwell B, meanwhile, is a vacant site previously earmarked for new nuclear development but is currently leased by China General Nuclear (CGN) Power, whose project was suspended in 2022.
Any buyback deal could require the UK government to compensate CGN, similar to the £100 million-plus payout made when buying out CGN’s stake in Sizewell C in 2022.
EDF Response and Broader Nuclear Plans
While EDF declined to comment directly on the talks, a spokesperson indicated that the company would support initiatives securing ongoing employment and community benefits at the sites. EDF highlighted the strengths of the locations, such as skilled workforces, grid connectivity, and local support for nuclear energy.
With only two sites — Oldbury and Wylfa — currently owned by Great British Nuclear (GBN), the UK government will need additional locations if it is to proceed with awarding multiple small modular reactor (SMR) contracts later this year. Industry experts noted that Bradwell B, Heysham, and Hartlepool are the “obvious” candidates based on past government shortlists.
The developments could also allow Wylfa to be reserved for a third full-scale gigawatt nuclear power station, complementing the UK’s projects at Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C.
