Rapid UK coastal erosion throws spotlight on £40bn nuclear plant

Financial Times

February 24, 2026

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Rapid coastal erosion in the UK has raised concerns over the safety of the £40bn Sizewell C nuclear power plant, which is just 2km away from the eroding cliffs. Over the past year, more than 27 metres of cliff have been lost, a stark increase compared to historical rates of 1 metre per year in the area. This alarming pace has sparked fears about the potential impact on the nearby nuclear site, highlighting vulnerabilities to extreme weather and rising sea levels. The Sizewell C plant, currently under construction, is central to the UK's efforts to achieve low-carbon energy production. However, the escalating erosion rate underscores the risks posed by climate change to critical infrastructure. While coastal erosion has long been a challenge in the area, the recent acceleration has heightened concerns about the stability of the site and its surrounding environment. For businesses and investors, this situation highlights the growing threat of natural disasters to large-scale projects. Delays or damage to Sizewell C could disrupt energy supplies, increase costs, and affect investor confidence in nuclear energy. Additionally, the potential need for costly mitigation measures, such as shoreline reinforcements or site modifications, adds another layer of financial risk. The case also underscores the broader implications of climate change on global infrastructure. As extreme weather events become more frequent, industries must adapt to mitigate risks. For businesses, this means reassessing project locations, investing in resilient technologies, and planning for long-term environmental challenges. In summary, the rapid coastal erosion near Sizewell C serves as a warning about the vulnerability of major infrastructure projects to climate change. While the immediate impact on the nuclear plant remains uncertain, the situation underscores the urgent need for businesses and investors to consider environmental risks in their decision-making processes

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Originally published on Financial Times on 2/24/2026