Tuesday 24 January 2017

Firm cleared to buy parts for Welsh nuclear reactor

A firm has been cleared to buy nuclear reactor components for a new plant in Wales.

Horizon Nuclear Power can start buying major equipment for its proposed reactor at Wylfa Newydd.

Independent assessment organisation Bureau Veritas issued the Licensee Certificate confirming the procurement of Long Lead Items (LLIS).

LLIs have long manufacturing times and are required early in construction so need to be ordered in advance of the main build commencing.

They include hydraulic control units that form part of the reactor’s primary shutdown systems, the reactor pressure vessel and the reinforced concrete containment vessel liner.

Head of Engineering Procurement and Construction at Horizon, Joe Savage, said: "This is a significant milestone for Horizon as it marks another step in our journey towards becoming a Nuclear Site Licensee and the construction and operation of Wylfa Newydd."

The UK Government has asked nuclear regulators to assess a Chinese-designed reactor for a proposed plant in Britain.