EDF extends life of Dungeness
Dungeness B will now be extended by a decade, postponing its scheduled closure, after a £150m investment programme.
The extension from EDF energy means the nuclear power station, which was due to close in 2018, will be able to generate low carbon electricity, producing enough power each year to supply the equivalent of 1.5m homes, until 2028.
The MP for Folkestone and Hythe, Damian Collins said the decision would benefit the local area: "This is excellent news for the local economy. In Shepway more than 1,000 people have jobs linked to the nuclear industry.
"Dungeness B directly employs 550 people and provides regular work for a further 200 contractors. Through wages alone, Dungeness B puts £40 million a year into the local economy."

Extending the license has required support from the government through the regulator, which has also been possible due to the £150m investment from EDF. This has included improving the defence and the computer systems in the control room.
Damian Collins MP also said that the decision would benefit those already employed at Dungeness: "The extension of the license provides peace of mind for everyone who works at Dungeness that the power station will be generating electricity until at least 2028."
He also explained why nuclear power is important in creating energy: "We need to have reliable and secure sources of energy. Dungeness provides the power each year for 1.5 million homes. This energy is available come rain or shine, and when the wind doesn't blow. It is also a low carbon source of energy. Renewables have a part to play in our energy system, but we need the power that nuclear can provide."