The UK’s Sizewell C NPP project has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the University of Liverpool and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRA) undertaking to work together to help boost sustainability, skills and economic growth across the region. The MOU will provide a launch pad to expand interactions between the two organisations and deepen relevant research, innovation and education ties, including Sizewell C’s support for PhD studentships.
The University of Liverpool has significant research excellence and facilities in nuclear physics, radiation protection, sustainability, supply chain development, risk & resilience, infrastructure, safety, transportation of materials/structure and planning policy. The University’s Department of Physics will provide skills, workforce development and training in nuclear safety to Sizewell C in addition to identifying further opportunities across the University for collaborative projects, centres and programmes.
Professor Tim Jones, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Liverpool, said: “This partnership allows us to utilise and build upon our existing research excellence and facilities in nuclear physics to help the city region achieve its Net Zero ambitions. I look forward to working with Sizewell and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority on our shared commitment to sustainability.”
Professor Laura Harkness, Associate pro-Vice Chancellor for Research & Impact for Science & Engineering, said: “Partnering with Sizewell C and the LCRA is a great opportunity for the University to strengthen our contribution to addressing the nuclear skills gap, which is crucial for the UK’s economic growth and energy security. The partnership will enable researchers from across the University to drive innovation and enhance sustainability for Sizewell C.”
Julia Pyke, Joint Managing Director of Sizewell C said the collaboration is “perfect example of the kind of legacy we want this project to leave here in the UK” She added: “Working closely with the University, building on our existing commitments to the north of England, we can help develop the region as a key centre of nuclear skills, expertise, and opportunities.”
Sizewell C previously committed to investing £2.5bn ($3.2bn) in the North of England as part of its ambition to benefit the whole of the UK. Two PhD students, funded by Sizewell C and the UKRI SATURN fund, began courses this academic year. The students will be delivering research projects within the Physics department, with research focusing on decommissioning pressure water reactors and platinum self-powered neutron detectors.
Sizewell C, majority owned by the government, will support thousands of jobs across the UK, creating 1,500 apprenticeships, and will deliver over 70% of its construction value to UK suppliers. The Sizewell C Consortium, a group of more than 200 UK companies supporting the build, have previously agreed MOUs with the North, as well as with the East of England and Wales.
