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Jan 17, 2025 Energy

EDF Energy's pursuit towards Nuclear Energy

Nuclear Energy: Hinkley Point C

As the world faces the twin challenges of rising energy demands and the need to cut carbon emissions, Dr. David Hall, Vice President of Inspection at Bilfinger UK, highlights the pivotal moment facing the nuclear industry. Projects like EDF's Hinkley Point C (HPC) exemplify the potential of nuclear energy as a safe, reliable, and zero-carbon power source. However, fulfilling this potential hinges on a vital yet often underappreciated factor: rigorous and continuous inspection.

Hinkley Point C:

Setting New Standards for Nuclear Power Hinkley Point C (HPC) is far more than just another nuclear power plant. As the first new nuclear power station to be built in the UK in nearly 30 years, it stands as a flagship project that raises the bar for the entire industry. Representing a significant investment in the country’s energy infrastructure, HPC is a cornerstone of the UK’s commitment to a sustainable future. With a capacity to generate 3.2 gigawatts of electricity, HPC will power six million homes, meeting around 7% of the UK’s electricity needs.

Meeting the Challenges of Complexity and Scale:

The scale and complexity of HPC bring unique challenges, particularly in ensuring safety, quality, and reliability. This is where inspection plays a vital role. Bilfinger UK are leading the charge in providing robust, fully qualified inspection services to ensure that every aspect of this monumental project meets the highest standards—both now and throughout its expected 60-year lifespan.

Inspection:

The Bedrock of Safety and Excellence In the nuclear industry, inspection is far more than a procedural requirement; it is the foundation of safety, reliability, and operational excellence. A single material failure in any power plant can lead to catastrophic consequences—especially in a nuclear facility. Every weld, pipe, and structural component undergoes meticulous testing using validated methods, performed by fully competent professionals. Each test and component is fully traceable, ensuring unparalleled accountability.

Advanced Techniques for Unmatched Precision:

Bilfinger UK, as a Tier 1 contractor, is responsible for delivering safe and efficient inspection services across the HPC site. Using advanced non-destructive testing (NDT) methods, they detect imperfections invisible to the naked eye, ensuring all components meet rigorous safety and performance criteria. The nuclear industry’s reliance on tried-and-tested methods has historically slowed the adoption of innovative techniques. However, the sheer complexity of HPC, coupled with EDF’s dedication to process optimisation, has created a fertile environment for the development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies. This includes Advanced NDT (ANDT) methods like Phased Array Ultrasonics (PAUT), which are being validated to replace conventional radiography. PAUT has the potential to reduce inspection costs by 60–80% compared to traditional methods, offering both efficiency and accuracy.

Collaboration and Growth Opportunities:

The scale of HPC requires unprecedented collaboration across industries. Bilfinger UK works closely with partners and stakeholders to seamlessly integrate inspection services throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements. The project also creates significant opportunities for skilled professionals. Bilfinger UK have already brought 20 NDT inspection apprentices on board and plan to double that number within two years. This commitment reflects their dedication to nurturing talent and meeting the growing demand for inspection expertise.

The question remains, is nuclear energy setting the stage to take over the renewable energy landscape, and how will the future for projects like HPC look in years to come?

To find out more about Hinkley Point C, visit EDF's website: https://www.edfenergy.com/energy/nuclear-new-build-projects/hinkley-point-c

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