Hinkley Point: EDF to make final decision on future of nuclear power plant project next Thursday

French energy giant EDF will make its long-awaited final investment decision on the planned nuclear power station at Hinkley Point next week.

The company announced on Thursday night it has called a meeting of its board of directors in a week's time.

The agenda includes the final investment decision for the construction of two reactors at Hinkley Point C in Somerset.

EDF has previously said it is totally committed to building the power plant in Somerset. Credit: PA Images

A company statement said:

The project has been dogged by delays and doubts before and since last month's Brexit vote. Credit: PA Images

Earlier this month EDF said it was still backing the projectdespite Britain's decision to leave the European Union.

The then Secretary of State for Energy Amber Rudd also confirmed the project would still go ahead after talks with EDF.

But doubts have dogged the plans for the £18 billion project and several delays to a final decision have raised further questions.

Hinkley Point C would be a crucial part of the UK's future energy mix, providing 7% of the country's total electricity needs when up and running in 2025.

The power plant would provide 7% of the country's energy by 2025. Credit: PA Images

The current Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark said: