The land to the north of Sizewell B was identified as a suitable site for a new nuclear power station by the Government over a decade ago.  Electricity has been safely produced from nuclear power at Sizewell for over half a century. Siting Sizewell C next to Sizewell B reduces the environmental impact from construction and the site can benefit from nuclear licencing and a grid connection.  All nuclear plants in the UK are located near the sea so that water can be used in the power station cooling system.