A national awareness week dedicated to nuclear energy has launched in the UK.
Back Nuclear Energy aims to create a new platform for discussion and engagement around the contribution nuclear can make to energy security, economic growth, the energy transition and skilled employment.
This inaugural week, running from 12–18 October 2026, comes as the country recognises the 70th anniversary of the start-up of the world’s first ever large-scale nuclear generating station, Calder Hall. This plant was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 17th October 1956.
With the UK now looking to expand its nuclear capacity, the focus is increasingly turning to how the country can successfully deliver the next generation of nuclear projects at the scale, speed and cost required. Over the week Back Nuclear Energy includes a series of invitation-only events in Westminster allowing policymakers and senior figures to explore some of the practical challenges and opportunities associated with delivering the UK’s nuclear ambitions. There is also a free-to-attend virtual conference. BackNuclearEnergy.com
Outlining the concept of the programme Shawn Coles, Founder of Back Nuclear Energy, said: “There is huge momentum around new nuclear in the UK, but there is also a need to broaden the conversation and build greater understanding of the role it can play in our clean energy future. Back Nuclear Energy is about bringing together industry, policymakers, businesses, investors, academics and the public to have that conversation. We want this to become a focal point in the calendar – a week when we collectively put nuclear energy in the spotlight.”
