Hinkley Point C nuclear plant delayed to 2030 as costs climb to £35bn

The Guardian World

by Jillian Ambrose

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

French utility company EDF has announced that the Hinkley Point C nuclear plant in Somerset, England, will face a significant delay. The first reactor is now expected to begin operations in 2030, one year later than originally planned. This delay comes at a cost of €2.5 billion to EDF and marks nearly 13 years since construction began—a timeline that has faced numerous setbacks. The project, which is Britain’s first new nuclear plant in over a generation, has encountered a series of challenges contributing to the delays. These include complex engineering complexities, supply chain issues, and regulatory hurdles. The delay not only pushes back the expected start date but also underscores the financial risks associated with large-scale nuclear projects. Hinkley Point C was seen as a critical component of the UK’s energy strategy, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy security. The delay could complicate efforts to meet the country’s climate goals, as the plant is designed to provide low-carbon electricity. This setback highlights the challenges of developing nuclear energy infrastructure, which is often characterized by high costs and prolonged timelines. The situation at Hinkley Point C reflects broader trends in the global nuclear industry, where projects frequently encounter delays and cost overruns. Such issues raise questions about the feasibility of expanding nuclear power as a key element of climate change mitigation strategies. As countries grapple with balancing energy needs and environmental goals, decisions about investing in nuclear energy versus renewable alternatives will likely be shaped by these challenges.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/20/2026