Nuclear Energy Infrastructure National Policy Statement

Michael Shanks Excerpts

Thursday 18th December 2025 Written Statements

[The Minister for Energy (Michael Shanks)]

Today I am pleased to announce we have designated the national policy statement for nuclear energy generation, EN-7, according to the Planning Act 2008. EN-7 now provides the planning framework for all nationally significant infrastructure projects proposing to use nuclear fission to generate energy, replacing EN-6, which applied to projects deployable by the end of 2025.

This marks an important milestone in delivering our ambition to make the UK a clean energy superpower, in part through an expansion and diversification of the UK nuclear energy industry. The designation of EN-7 builds on the momentum of recent Government action, including the publication of the Prime Minister’s strategic steer to the nuclear sector following the report from the nuclear regulatory taskforce. Our implementation of the report’s recommendations will shape a modernised, more agile regulatory environment, while maintaining the UK’s high standards of safety, security, and environmental protection.

Alongside EN-7, we will be publishing the EN-7 supplementary information. This document clarifies the planning and regulatory requirements for nuclear energy projects, helping applicants to navigate the process for applying for development consent, and to engage effectively with regulators and expert consultees. By providing practical advice, the supplementary information aims to streamline project delivery, reduce uncertainty, and support robust safety and environmental standards. It will be updated regularly to reflect stakeholder feedback, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for all involved.

The EN-7 and supporting documents, including the EN-7 supplementary information, are available on gov.uk.

[HCWS1208]