Multimillion-pound Hinkley Point C project reaches milestone

Construction at the multimillion-pound Hinkley Point C nuclear power station has reached a milestone as the first reactor building is lifted into place.

This step will seal the roof of the reactor building, enabling the installation of the first nuclear reactor by 2024.

Beginning on Friday, engineering teams commenced the lifting process for the 245-tonne steel dome.

The dome constitutes the upper section of the inner containment of the reactor building, which is a steel cylinder surrounded by concrete.

Simon Parsons, nuclear island area director, said: “Building the first nuclear power station in a generation is a challenging job and the success of this complex operation is due to the determination and commitment of our fantastic teams.

“Lifting the dome allows us to get on with the fitting of equipment, pipes and cables, including the first reactor which is on site and ready to be installed next year.”

Nuclear Minister Andrew Bowie said: “This is a major milestone in building Britain’s first nuclear reactor in a generation and a key part of the UK Government’s plans to revitalise nuclear.

“Generating enough zero-carbon power for six million homes, Hinkley Point C will reduce our reliance on imported energy and support our shift to net zero.”

Construction costs are reported to be around £25bn.

About 10,000 workers and 3,500 British companies are constructing Hinkley Point C, set to power 6m homes by the anticipated summer of 2027.