The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform last week backed EDF Energy's scheme, which will provide around 1,300MW. Work is due to begin next year.
The firm said this is part of its aim to meet a shortfall in generation. It argued that nuclear power should be a part of the energy mix and has expressed an interest in developing up to four plants in response to the government nuclear consultation.
Chief executive Vincent de Rivaz said: "We believe that diversity is vital to meet the key challenges for security of supply, climate change and affordability of energy."
