Nuclear tax

As the issue of securing a steady supply of electricity becomes critical for the UK, with its declining reserves of fossil fuels, aged nuclear reactors and a budding market of the renewables, the government admits planning to impose a new tax on electricity bills to help subsidise the creation and operation of new nuclear facilities. The move is bound to run into criticism for prioritising nuclear power over renewables and for tapping taxpayers' money which is already spead too thin.

Language:
1. a levy = a tarrif, a tax
2. to recoup the cost of building a plant = to return or to receive the equivalent
3. the matter has come to a head = The matter has reached a critical stage
4. The tax is taking effect on Sept 7.
5. be a byword for = a symbol for, represent sth
6. be loath to admit = be reluctant to admit