The construction of EDF Energy’s follow up project to the Hinkley Point C new nuclear plant could begin within the next three years, according to the group’s boss.

The UK arm of the French state-owned nuclear giant is yet to agree a fresh financing framework for the Sizewell C nuclear in Suffolk after repeated criticism of the Hinkley Point C deal.

But Simone Rossi, the company’s new chief executive, said the group expects to be able start construction at the end of 2021 to take advantage of its experience building the Hinkley project in Somerset.

The UK's new nuclear drive has been dogged by criticism due to high costs, while renewable energy costs have fallen faster than expected.