Bridgend Green Party opposes Last Energy’s plan for small nuclear plants in Llynfi Valley, citing safety and necessity concerns.
Last Energy, a US company, is proposing the project. It involves building four small nuclear plants. These would sit at the old Llynfi Power Station. The power station closed back in 1977.
The first plant could be running by 2027. This project could power 244,000 homes yearly. It could also create around 100 jobs for locals.
The Green Party fears the plant’s “untested” design. Debra Cooper stated the Green Party opposes nuclear power and does not want this in Llynfi Valley. They worry about the stress on local people.
This design would be the first of its kind, leading to real concerns from locals. The Green Party questions the need for the plant, suggesting Wales could use solar and wind for energy instead.
The group worries about potential nuclear leaks and waste storage. They ask who will pay for waste storage later and fear the area turning into a waste site. Accidental leaks also present a terrorism risk.
The Green Party criticized the public meetings, claiming many locals were unaware of them. These meetings covered the plant proposals in Bettws and Pencoed.
Last Energy stated they promoted meetings with leaflets, online ads, and working with the local council. They also posted information on their website.
Last Energy addressed safety concerns directly, stating they use proven reactor technology found in over 300 plants globally. They utilize existing fuel and supply chains, drawing from industry knowledge to operate pressure water reactors. Modular build methods have also been tested.
The UK regulator’s office will check designs later. Resources Wales and the Environment Agency will assess the plants and require a permit before nuclear material arrives.
The company has started the site licensing process, involving the nuclear regulator, ONR. Welsh ministers will make the final decision, given this project has national importance.