Hinkley Point C nuclear power project has reached a new milestone with the first reactor arriving in Somerset. According to the project developer, EDF, at just 13-metres long, the reactor pressure vessel is weighing 500 tonnes and will create heat needed to make steam for the world’s largest turbine. 

It is the first of two nuclear reactors which will be installed at Hinkley Point C. Each reactor will help provide enough low carbon electricity for 3 million homes and will be vital in helping Britain achieve Net Zero and stronger energy security, the company’s statement reads.

The path of the Hinkley Point C reactor

The reactor has been manufactured in France by Framatome, in the same factory which made the last nuclear reactor for a British power station at Sizewell B in Suffolk. That reactor came into operation in 1995.

The path of the reactor took it from France to Avonmouth Docks in Bristol before being transported by barge to Combwich Wharf on the River Parrett in Somerset, with the delivery handled by Osprey Group.

The final journey was a 5 hour trip for 4 miles by a transporter to its permanent home on the construction site. It will be installed in the reactor building after the dome is lifted into place.

The project

Hinkley Point C is the first new nuclear power station to be built in the UK in over 20 years. Located in Somerset, the facility will provide low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes.

EDF noted that the electricity generated by its two EPR reactors will offset 9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year, or 600 million tonnes over its 60-year lifespan.