By bizn_fun 
Speaking to the BBC’s Today programme, Mr Fingleton said the UK’s regulations have “made us the most expensive place in the world to build nuclear”.
Limitations on exposure to radiation are stricter in an energy setting than in a dentists or doctors, he said.
“Motorways wouldn’t be very useful if we all drove at five miles an hour but that’s sort of what we’re doing in nuclear safety.”
The government is expected to address the report’s findings later this month in the Budget.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “This government is delivering a golden age of new nuclear as we drive for energy sovereignty and abundance.
“A crucial part of that is delivering the reforms we need to drive forward new nuclear in a safe, affordable way.”
Several major economies are reassessing their nuclear strategies and expanding capacity.
The number of planned and proposed nuclear plants currently in the works is roughly equivalent to the number already in operation around the world.
The UK is among 30 other countries that have signed a global pledge to triple their nuclear capacity by 2050 in a bid to cut carbon emissions.
Britain’s existing nuclear power stations account for about 15% of the electricity generated in 2024.
The UK runs nine nuclear reactors but they are ageing, with eight set to shut by 2030, and the new plants will take several years to come online.