More than 3,200 people are now at work building the new nuclear power station in Somerset. The project is on track for its next major milestone in 2019 – the completion of the 4,500 tonne concrete platform on which the reactor buildings sit. This significant moment for the project is known as "J-0" and has been underpinned by the successful 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). Today (Thursday) 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. The innovative approach 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.
Full construction at Hinkley Point C got underway after EDF, its Chinese partner, CGN, and the UK Government, signed final contracts in September 2016. The power station will supply the UK with reliable low carbon electricity to meet 7% of the country's needs. The project is mobilised for an objective of initial delivery for unit 1 at the end of 2025.
The first accommodation campus opened on schedule with 510 beds, a restaurant and gym. Using innovative pre-fabrication techniques, it was installed in just 8 months.
HPC site August 2018. View of concrete batching plants.