Hinkley Point C has reached another major milestone in the construction of its nuclear power plant with the arrival of the reactor vessel (RPV) forUnit 2 at the Somerset site. Weighing approximately 500 tons and measuring 13 meters long, this vessel was manufactured by Framatome in Saint-Marcel, France.
The first vessel, intended forUnit 1, arrived in 2023 and has already been installed in the reactor building. This delivery marks an important milestone for the project, which represents the first EPR reactor construction project in the United Kingdom in over 30 years.
A crucial but specific role for the reactor vessel
The reactor vessel serves as the main container for the reactor core and essential internal systems. It is important to note that the vessel is not delivered with nuclear fuel: it will house the reactor core and internal components during the next stages of installation.
Steam generators and the future of Unit 2
According to EDF, the steam generators for Unit 2 have already been manufactured and completed, with delivery scheduled for later in 2026. These components are essential for transferring heat from the reactor core to the secondary circuit and, consequently, for generating electricity.
Two EPRs to power six million homes
Hinkley Point C will comprise two EPR reactors, each with a capacity of 1,630 MW, capable of supplying low-carbon electricity to around six million homes. Once operational, these reactors will make a significant contribution to the UK's energy security for decades to come.
A construction site in progress
Work on Unit 1 began in 2018, while construction ofUnit 2 started in 2019. The arrival of this second reactor marks the continuation of this ambitious project, which combines technological innovation with the strengthening of the country's sustainable energy production.
Photos © EDF – Framatome
