Tuesday 4 April 2017

Horizon submits application for nuclear licence in Wales

Horizon Nuclear Power has submitted an application for a Nuclear Site Licence for a proposed facility in Wales.

It is one of the main permissions Horizon will need as it looks to build and operate two Advanced-Boiling Water Reactor (ABWR) units for the Wylfa Newydd power station on Anglesey.

The news follows EDF's recent announcement that concrete has been poured for the first permanent structures at Hinkley Point C nuclear power station.

Receipt of the application by the Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) now triggers a 19-month programme of assessment and intervention to establish whether Horizon can demonstrate it will be in control of all safety related activities on its site.

Anthony Webb, Safety and Licensing, Director, Horizon, said: "Today’s announcement marks a significant development in the maturity and growth of Horizon as we get ready to build and operate our lead site at Wylfa Newydd.

"We already have a proven technology, aligned with experienced leadership and we are rapidly building the wider capability and organisation to help ensure success.

"Our focus will now be fully on providing the ONR with confidence in our ability to safely deliver this crucial project."

Nuclear power’s share of total UK energy capacity has been falling for 23 years.

A reactor designed by Toshiba’s nuclear unit has recently been approved by UK regulators.