World Power Plants

Bradwell nuclear power station242 MW Nuclear

NuclearVerified: Feb 2026

The Bradwell nuclear power station stands as a significant player in the United Kingdom's energy portfolio, ranking 128th among the 3,024 power generation facilities across the nation. With a capacity of 242 MW, it is the 18th largest nuclear plant out of 22 in the UK, contributing a modest 0.16% to the country’s total capacity of 153,520 MW, where gas remains the dominant fuel source. Commissioned in 1957, Bradwell is one of the older nuclear facilities, utilizing advanced technology for safe and efficient energy generation. Its location near other substantial gas plants, such as Grain CHP (1,404 MW) and Damhead Creek (805 MW), reflects the UK's heavy reliance on gas, which makes up a significant portion of the energy mix. Despite being surrounded by larger gas facilities, Bradwell's role as a nuclear generator is crucial in providing a stable and low-carbon source of electricity. The UK's energy landscape is evolving, with increasing focus on renewable energy and nuclear generation, making Bradwell an integral part of this transition. Operated by Magnox Ltd, the station is strategically positioned to support the national grid as the country seeks to balance energy needs with environmental responsibilities. As the UK continues to phase out older fossil fuel-based plants, the significance of reliable nuclear power, exemplified by Bradwell, will only grow in ensuring energy security and sustainability.

Capacity
242 MW
Commissioning Year
1957

69 years old

Owner
Magnox Ltd
Location
51.7414°, 0.8969°

United Kingdom, Europe

Context & rankings
  • 127. largest of 3,024 plants in United Kingdom
  • #6,787 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #408 of 514 Nuclear plants worldwide
  • 0.16% of the installed capacity of United Kingdom
Age & fleet comparison

69 years in operation

Nuclear fleet average: 38.1 years

Operator portfolio

Magnox Ltd operates 6 plants totalling 2,717 MW

Regional density

315 plants within 100 km, 22,251 MW combined

Nearest plant: Bradwell (6.3 km)

Data provenance

Source: Wikidata

Location

Coordinates:: 51.741400, 0.896944
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint

Zero Direct Emissions

Bradwell nuclear power station is a nuclear power plant producing approximately 1802 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.

Lifecycle emissions: ~12 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Nuclear
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
United Kingdom
Continent
Europe
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

United KingdomEnergy Profile

3,024
Total Plants
155.3 GW
Total Capacity
GasWindNuclearCoal
Top Fuels

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