UK Industry Moves Fast On Nuclear Plans

Following yesterday's decision by the British Government to go with nuclear power, UK energy giant EDF Energy says it will be building four new plants in England, with the first scheduled for the end of 2017.

In a statement, the company says it will "step up" its plans to take part in building the plants using EPR technology.

"Contingent on a positive decision, we have been preparing the groundwork in all key areas," says EDF chief executive Vincent de Rivaz.

EDF itself says that building new power stations will create job opportunities for UK companies and employees and will allow a reduction in energy prices.

EDF is not the only energy company set to benefit from the government's decision.

Energy company npower also welcomed the government proposals and highlighted the need to tackle the country's growing power demands.

"The UK needs the full range of low-carbon generating technologies to deliver energy that's affordable, clean and secure," says npower CEO Andy Duff.

By Ozge Ibrahim