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The energy justice implications of reduced consent in planning reforms: assessing UK nuclear planning reforms for small modular reactors

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Darren McCauleyORCiD

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).

Abstract

This paper examines the socio-legal implications of recent reforms to UK nuclear planning law facilitating the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) across England and Wales. The reforms extend planning permissions beyond traditional nuclear sites. These changes create a distinct consenting process compared to large nuclear facilities, notably through accelerated timelines and a dedicated regulatory taskforce to expedite approvals and early stakeholder engagement. Applying the energy justice framework, the key issue addressed is whether these reduced consent reforms compromise procedural fairness, equitable distribution of benefits and burdens, and recognition of environmental risks within affected communities.

Publication metadata

Author(s): McCauley D

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: Journal of Energy & Natural Resources Law

Year: 2026

Pages: epub ahead of print

Online publication date: 11/03/2026

Acceptance date: 18/02/2026

Date deposited: 19/02/2026

ISSN (print): 0264-6811

ISSN (electronic): 2376-4538

Publisher: Routledge

URL: https://doi.org/10.1080/02646811.2026.2635979

DOI: 10.1080/02646811.2026.2635979

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