Hinkley Point C: Europe's Largest Construction Site

Peikko's expertise has been crucial in the demanding nuclear power project at Hinkley Point C (HPC) in Somerset, England. HPC is the first nuclear power plant built in the UK in over 20 years, featuring two third-generation pressurized water reactors with a combined capacity of 3,200 MW, enough to power six million British homes. The plant, supplied by EDF, will reduce annual CO2 emissions by nine million tons.

Project Overview

Main construction began in 2016 with enabling work, wildlife protection measures and infrastructure preparations. The site includes a concrete factory, storage areas, tunnels, pools, tanks, and a jetty. Worker accommodations and internal transport lines were also established. The site operates like a small town, with over 50 cranes, including the world's largest crane, Sarens SGC-250.

Safety First

Safety is paramount in nuclear construction, addressing even the most extreme risks like leaks, fires, explosions, and core meltdowns, as well as external threats like floods and plane crashes. The cast-in-situ concrete structures are massive, designed and modeled by hundreds of engineers to meet stringent requirements. Every construction phase is meticulously documented and approved.

Construction Details

Daily, thousands of cubic meters of concrete are poured, and hundreds of tons of reinforcements and steel parts are installed. The schedule is tight, but nuclear safety is never compromised. Documentation and traceability of every detail are crucial for the plant's 60-year lifespan.

Peikko's Role and Responsibilities

Peikko plays a vital role in the HPC project by supplying all embedded plates and penetration frames. The quality of these products and their documentation is paramount. Success in the nuclear industry requires strong expertise, established operations, and a quality organization. Peikko has been involved in HPC preparations since 2008, with production now in full swing at its Finnish and German factories. Peikko's responsibilities include ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety in their products, which are essential for the project's success. Peikko is also active in other nuclear projects, offering products and solutions with over half a century of experience.

Facts

• Main construction start: 2016
• Target commissioning: 2029
• Capacity: 3,200 MW
• Estimated cost: £31 billion
• Technology suppliers: EDF and Framatome