Hinkley Point C receives second reactor pressure vessel

The second reactor pressure vessel for Hinkley Point C has been delivered to the site after transport from France; the plant is due to open in 2031.

Hinkley Point C has received its second reactor pressure vessel as work continues on Britain’s newest nuclear power station. The steel cylinder weighs 500 tonnes and measures about 13 metres in length. It was shipped from France to Avonmouth Docks, moved by barge to Combwich Wharf and then carried by road for the final four miles to the site. The plant is scheduled to open in 2031. Key facts: - The reactor pressure vessel is a high-strength steel cylinder weighing 500 tonnes and about 13m long. - The component was transported from France to Avonmouth, transferred by barge to Combwich Wharf and then moved by transporter for the last four miles, a journey that included a six-hour road trip. - The first reactor pressure vessel arrived in 2023, and when operational each reactor is reported to power about three million homes. - EDF reports Unit 1 has been welded into place and is being fitted with pipes, cables and equipment. - Work at Unit 2 is focused on completing buildings following a successful dome lift. - Construction is expected to peak in the next 18 months with around 15,000 people working on the build, and the project cost has risen to an estimated £46bn from £18bn projected in 2017. Summary: The delivery is reported as a notable construction milestone and supports ongoing assembly and installation work at both units. EDF says Unit 1 is undergoing internal fitting while Unit 2 progresses with its buildings. Construction activity is expected to peak in the next 18 months with a large workforce. The plant is scheduled to open in 2031.