TWO years after Hinkley Point C was fully launched, the scale of construction and progress has been revealed by the release of new photographs and film footage of the project.
More than 3,200 people are now at work building the new nuclear power station, which is on track for its next major milestone in 2019 – the completion of the 4,500 tonne concrete platform on which the reactor buildings site.
This significant moment for the project is known as “J-0” and has been underpinned by completion of the final design for the work.
The project is also setting its sights further ahead with preparation for the MEH phase (Mechanical, Electrical and HVAC – heating, ventilation and air conditioning).
On Thursday, September 27, four major UK contractors signed the ‘MEH Alliance’ to work together on the complex installation of cabling and pipework in the power station’s 2,500 rooms. It means that Altrad, Balfour Beatty Bailey, Cavendish Nuclear and Doosan Babcock will pool their expertise to work as a single entity.
The alliance aims to create new industrial capacity and jobs by manufacturing specialist pipework in Britain.
Hinkley Point C managing director Stuart Crooks said: “Everyone working on the project should be proud of what they have achieved so far. Unions, contractors and suppliers are successfully working together with a complete focus on quality and safety.
“Innovation and experience from other projects is helping us boost productivity and get ready for the next stages.
“I am also proud of the positive impact that Hinkley Point C is having on the South West. We are determined to create a positive legacy here for people, communities, jobs and skills.”
A full report on what’s going on at Hinkley C is in this week’s Free Press.