Centrica is seeking clarification from the Government on key financing and cost issues before making decisions about whether to continue its nuclear power partnership with EDF and build four new nuclear plants in Britain at an estimated cost of £20bn.
The British Gas parent wants more details about how the Government’s electricity market reforms will affect the programme and is pressing for further guidance on the fiscal framework and the complex contracts for differences.
It is also in detailed talks with its French partner and consortium leader about the total costs of the first station, Hinkley Point C in Somerset where contracts worth £250m have already been let to British companies.
Centrica which has a 20pc share of the partnership is expected to provide more details of the outstanding issues with the release of full year financial figures this week. Hinkley still needs planning approval and clearance for the reactor technology and a decision to go ahead is not expected before the end of the year.
