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Britain could double its nuclear power output to ensure energy security and reduce carbon emissions after 2030, a government commissioned report has said.
Former energy minister Malcolm Wicks said that an increase in atomic energy would help limit Britain's growing dependence on gas-fired power plants and fossil fuels.
The report identified the importance of working alongside Norway, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, in providing a "firm basis" to pursue energy security goals.
"Nuclear power is a proven, large-scale, low-carbon way to generate electricity," the report said.
"To enhance energy security and reduce our reliance on imports, a range between say, 35-40 per cent of electricity from nuclear could be a sensible aspiration beyond 2030."
Only one of the UK's present nuclear power plans will remain open after 2030, despite plans for replacement plants across Europe. And the first will not operate before 2017.
Wicks recommended the government consider founding an 'Office of International Energy', encouraging closer cross-government involvement on the issue.
And the usage of strategic storage facilities was encouraged, to ensure gas supplies continue during strong winter conditions, instead of a reliance on commercial storage.
The prime minister welcomed the report and said: "We are already taking a number of responsible far-sighted steps to put the UK on a secure, low carbon, affordable energy footing in the long-term and I am grateful for the work undertaken by Malcolm Wicks."
Energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband said the government "cannot afford to be complacent" about the challenges faced in securing energy supplies.
He added: "We'll continue to use fossil fuels in the near term as part of our transition to the low carbon economy and maximise our own North Sea reserves, as well as do all we can to secure the most diverse rand of energy imports."
The government is to publish a formal response in due course, following a consideration of the report's recommendations.
Dods Parliamentary Communications Ltd