Name of the Project
Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant project.
Location
The project will be located on a site to the west of the existing Hinkley Point A and B power stations in West Somerset, in the UK. Hinkley A was decommissioned in 2000, and Hinkley B is due to be decommissioned in 2023.
Client
EDF Energy.
Under a deal agreed to in October 2015, China General Nuclear (CGN) will take a 33.5% stake in the project.
Project Description
The project will involve the construction, operation and maintenance of a new nuclear power station, known as Hinkley Point C.
The development will include:
• two UK European pressurised reactors (EPRs), with a combined output of 3 200 MW, associated buildings and a plant;
• staff facilities, offices, workshops and storage buildings;
• cooling water tunnels and associated infrastructure, including a fish recovery and return system;
• fuel and management facilities, including for spent fuel and intermediate waste;
• a sea wall, incorporating a public footpath;
• a national-grid 400 kV substation and overhead power lines on site;
• a public information centre;
• a temporary jetty;
• an emergency access road;
• access and parking facilities for workers, visitors and deliveries; and
• a temporary accommodation campus, including 510 bed spaces.
The new power plant will be capable of generating up to 3 260 MW.
The power station is expected to operate for about 60 years.
Potential Job Creation
An estimated 25 000 new employment opportunities are expected to be created over the construction period. When completed, the plant will employ 900 people.
Value
The plant is expected to cost £18-billion to build.
CGN will cover one-third of the cost.
Duration
The first unit is expected to be commissioned in 2025/26.
Latest Developments
Business Secretary Greg Clark has told a House of Lords Committee that the UK will have enough energy if the HPC project faces further delays, but that nuclear power remains an essential part of the country's electricity mix. The government does not, however, have a specific target for nuclear energy use in the future, he has said.
The 3 200 MWe was expected to come on line in 2025, but could now be delayed to 2027, which is ten years later than developer EDF Energy originally proposed.
Key Contracts and Suppliers
Kier BAM JV (site preparation works) and Bouygues and O’Rourke JV (construction contract).
On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.
Contact Details for Project Information
EDF Energy, tel +44 1138 207117.