Environmental groups are launching campaigns to safeguard the delicate ecosystems of the Severn Estuary from the potentially harmful effects of water intakes associated with the under-construction Hinkley Point C (HPC) nuclear power station. This project, which is expected to extract water at rates equivalent to three Olympic swimming pools per minute, has raised significant concerns among advocates for the environment.
The intake pipes for the HPC are alarmingly large, with cross-sections comparable to six double-decker buses. Currently, EDF Energy, the project's owner, is required to fit these pipes with acoustic fish deterrents (AFDs) aimed at reducing the risk of millions of fish being drawn through the system. Unfortunately, as of January 2025, these AFDs have yet to be installed, leading to accusations of inadequate temporary compensation efforts from EDF, which proposed initiatives such as creating new saltmarsh environments and improving fish passage.
According to Simon Hunter, chief executive of Bristol Avon Rivers Trust, "The Severn Estuary is an irreplaceable ecosystem, and EDF must meet its obligations to protect it." Hunter’s sentiments echo the growing concerns about biodiversity alongside the necessity for reliable new energy sources. Mark Lloyd, chief executive of the Rivers Trust, expressed dismay over the government's handling of the situation, stating, "It is very disappointing... the need for acoustic fish deterrents on the water intakes for the new nuclear power station being built at Hinkley by EDF."
The tension over Hinkley Point C has been amplified due to its esteemed position as the only nuclear power plant under construction within the UK. Disputes over the seawater cooling system have persisted, with EDF estimating the system’s operation could result in the annual death of approximately 44 tonnes of fish. Campaigners have voiced strong objections, claiming salmon stocks will face drastic reductions, contradicting EDF's assessment of only "very small impact on fish populations."
The debate surrounding Hinkley Point C has reached political circles as well. Following criticisms of the project's proposed solutions to fish protection, Sir Keir Starmer ridiculed the AFD proposal, stating, "I wish I was joking," expressing concerns over bureaucratic processes stifling important infrastructure developments. The Prime Minister joined the fray, insisting there were "countless examples of Nimbys and zealots gumming up the legal system..." This statement reflects the government's stance on accelerating infrastructure projects to bolster the nation's growth and energy independence.
Meanwhile, we find EDF responding to these growing criticisms by reiteratively asserting their commitment to environmental protection during the construction and operation of Hinkley Point C. A spokesperson for EDF claimed, "Hinkley Point C has already... its clean power will make a major impact in the fight against climate change." They note the implementation of some fish protection measures, including specially engineered low-velocity cooling water intakes and fish return systems.
Despite the reassurances from EDF, the complicated dynamics surrounding Hinkley Point C continue to evolve. The project has faced multiple delays, with initial estimates predicting the plant would begin generating energy back in 2017. Those expectations were dashed as they pushed the operation start to at least 2029—years later than originally planned, compounded by budget increases expected to soar as high as £35 billion, compared to past estimates of £25 to £26 billion.
Despite delays, the government maintains optimistic rhetoric around the potential of nuclear power to contribute to the UK’s strategic goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband remarked last month, "Getting Hinkley up and running... will be a win for our long-term energy independence..." This aligns with the UK’s commitment to advancing greener energy solutions and addressing climate concerns even amid the pressures from dwindling fish populations in the region.
Looking to the future, the balancing act between energy production and environmental conservation has never been more pertinent. With institutions like Bristol Avon Rivers Trust firmly committed to advocating for responsible action, and EDF aiming to fulfill both energy and environmental promises, the path forward will no doubt involve significant negotiation and collaboration. The health of the Severn Estuary and the stability of energy procurement for millions of homes hang delicately on these interconnected outcomes.