EP.236 Sir Alex Chisholm & Kirsty Gogan on the Role of Nuclear Power
Mar 25, 2025
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Sir Alex Chisholm, Chair of EDF Energy, and Kirsty Gogan, Co-CEO of Terra Praxis, dive deep into the critical role of nuclear power in meeting increasing energy demands. They discuss how nuclear energy can support the rise of data centers amidst AI advancements and the acceleration of small modular reactors. Key barriers like funding and public support are examined, alongside the intersection of policy and private investment in shaping the nuclear landscape. Their insights underline the future potential of nuclear energy for sustainable economic growth.
Nuclear power is increasingly vital for meeting the clean energy demands of data centers and technological advancements in a secure energy future.
Overcoming regulatory barriers and innovating manufacturing processes are essential for accelerating the deployment of small modular reactors in the UK.
Deep dives
The Growing Demand for Nuclear Power
The increasing demand for clean and reliable energy sources is driving a renaissance in nuclear power, particularly in response to the needs of the technology sector. With heightened concerns around energy security, especially following geopolitical events like the invasion of Ukraine, nuclear energy is being reconsidered as a stable solution. Data centers, which require consistent and high reliability energy sources, are particularly dependent on nuclear power, as they outpace traditional facilities in energy consumption. This shift implies that nuclear power could play a critical role in meeting the energy needs of both current and future technological advancements.
Barriers to Nuclear Deployment and Solutions
To realize a substantial expansion in nuclear power capacity, significant changes in the deployment framework are necessary. Current licensing processes are often seen as complicated and costly, deterring investment and hindering rapid growth in nuclear infrastructure. By leveraging technological advancements like generative AI, companies seek to streamline these processes, potentially generating high-quality permits with reduced costs and time. Innovating the nuclear delivery model through standardized manufacturing and deployment approaches could help overcome long-standing barriers and enhance investment viability.
UK's Position in the Global Nuclear Landscape
The UK's policies and regulatory frameworks have positioned it favorably for nuclear development compared to other countries. With an established legal and regulatory system, the UK's government is actively encouraging investment and development in nuclear energy through initiatives aimed at reducing planning barriers for small modular reactors. The demand for nuclear in the UK is further supported by its audience's acceptance of advanced technologies and renewable energy initiatives. This environment is bolstered by significant investments from both public and private sectors, aimed at improving operational efficiencies while ensuring public safety standards.
Public Perception and the Future of Nuclear Energy
Public support for nuclear energy has been rising, particularly as awareness grows regarding its role in achieving decarbonization goals and enhancing energy security. The normalization of nuclear's benefits is encouraging acceptance amidst rising global demand for low-carbon energy sources. Public engagement, alongside the credibility of regulatory bodies, plays a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing this support. As more high-profile companies signal commitments to nuclear projects, such as Microsoft's initiative to revive existing nuclear sites, the overall perspective on nuclear power continues to evolve positively.
This week on Energy Unplugged, we're thrilled to welcome Sir Alex Chisholm, UK Chair of EDF and a Board Director at BT Group plc, along with Kirsty Gogan, Founding Director & Co-CEO of Terra Praxis and Managing Partner at LucidCatalyst. They'll be joining Dan Monzani, our Managing Director for the UK, Ireland, and India, for an insightful discussion on the role of nuclear power.
Prior to EDF Energy and BT Group, Sir Alex worked at the top level of the UK Government, including 4 years in charge of the business and energy department. Kirsty’s experience counts 15 years as a senior advisor to Government on climate and energy policy, including 10 Downing St and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.
The main topics up for discussion include the following:
The role of nuclear in supporting data centre demand
How to accelerate the deployment of small modular reactors, and the role of innovation in standardising their manufacturing
The major barriers to successful new nuclear development, including funding, supply chains, skills base, and public support to this technology
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