French Nuclear Firm to Bolster UK Economy with 1,000 New Jobs for Sizewell C

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A French nuclear engineering firm, Assystem, is set to create 1,000 new jobs across the UK, doubling its workforce, to support construction of the Sizewell C nuclear power station in Suffolk. This follows the government’s final investment decision on 22 July 2025 to proceed with the project, marking a significant step in the nation’s pursuit of energy security and economic growth via nuclear power.

The new roles spanning engineering, digital and project management will be spread across Assystem’s ten UK sites, with particular focus on Bristol, Blackburn, Derby, Sunderland and London. These positions are expected to be filled over the next five years, providing a substantial boost to local economies in these regions. Simon Barber, managing director of Assystem UK, stated in a recent interview: “This is a landmark moment for the UK’s commitment to nuclear power as the backbone of its low-carbon energy future. Assystem is ready to deliver, leveraging our strong regional presence to create jobs and drive economic growth.”

The government has taken a 44.9 per cent stake in Sizewell C, making it the largest single equity shareholder in the project. Other investors include Canada’s La Caisse (20 per cent), Centrica (15 per cent), EDF (12.5 per cent) and Amber Infrastructure (7.6 per cent). The project is estimated to cost £38 billion and is expected to support 10,000 direct jobs at peak construction, with thousands more across the supply chain. The government has also committed to ensuring 70% of the construction value benefits British businesses, a pledge that could strengthen domestic industries.

However, the nuclear sector has faced challenges, such as EDF’s Hinkley Point C project in Somerset. Initially budgeted at £18 billion, Hinkley Point C’s costs have ballooned to between £31 billion and £35 billion in 2015 prices and as much as £46 billion in current terms, while delays have persisted since 2016. Sizewell C’s success will hinge on avoiding similar pitfalls, a concern for those wary of large-scale public investments under the current Labour government’s oversight.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband hailed the project, stating: “This government is investing in big projects to usher in a new era of nuclear power, reducing reliance on volatile global fossil fuel markets.” While the ambition is clear, critics argue that such grandiose promises must be matched by disciplined execution to avoid repeating past mistakes.

Once operational, Sizewell C is projected to supply affordable, clean electricity for at least 60 years, reinforcing the UK’s energy independence. For now, Assystem’s job creation signals a tangible economic upside, offering opportunities for skilled workers and reinforcing the UK’s global standing in the nuclear industry.