Heysham back on stream by Christmas – EDF

POWER group EDF Energy said it is working on a robust “safety case” to bring two reactors at its Heysham nuclear plant in Lancashire back on stream after they were shut down in June and August.

EDF took the action in June after an “unexpected result” during tests, and last month after discovering a crack on a component called a boiler spine.

Two reactors in Hartlepool were also closed because the power plant is of the same design as Heysham.

In a stock market statement EDF said it was continuing to carry out inspections and was building a case for the continued operation of the boilers which would be subject to approval from the nuclear regulator, the Office for Nuclear Regulation. It expects there to be a phased return to service between October and December.

“Dates for returning the stations to service depend on the findings and completion of the inspections. EDF Energy will give further updates on the progress of the programme when it is able,” said the company.