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Supporting Sizewell C nuclear project to secure UK’s clean energy future
The Egis-led consortium to which Tractebel belongs has secured a contract extension to support EDF Energy in advancing Sizewell C – a nationally critical development set to offer a major boost to the UK’s energy security. The project involves the planning, design, and construction of two European Pressurised Reactors (EPRs) on the east coast of Suffolk, advancing the UK’s commitment to a clean and secure energy future.
Picture: © Sizewell C
The ICOSH consortium, comprising Egis, Amentum, SETEC Nucléaire, and Tractebel, will apply their nuclear engineering expertise to continue delivering the new reactors to the highest safety and regulatory standards. This latest phase builds on the consortium’s longstanding involvement and expands the scope of work to include detailed civil design for 12 nuclear island buildings, encompassing the reactor, fuel, and safeguarding structures, widely regarded as the most technically complex and safety-critical components of any nuclear power station.
Providing civil engineering services
Each partner will perform specific tasks during this phase. Tractebel is responsible for the reinforced and pre-stressed concrete design of the HR (Reactor Building) and HL14 (Safeguard Buildings), including the design of pools, liners, and special embedded parts located within these buildings.
The consortium has supported Sizewell C since 2020, drawing on their expertise from Hinkley Point C to deliver replication studies and geotechnical assessments that underpin the entire development. Recently, the consortium has been tasked with designing the common raft and pre-stressing gallery.
Sizewell C will feature two state-of-the-art EPRs using replica designs developed during the construction of its sister plant, Hinkley Point C, where ICOSH was also appointed to deliver the civil engineering designs and geotechnical studies. By adopting a standardised approach, the programme is reducing delivery risks and progressing more quickly towards the UK’s long-term energy goals than would be possible with a reactor design developed from scratch.
Securing the UK’s low-carbon energy future
Once completed, Sizewell C will generate enough electricity to power six million homes, equivalent to 7% of the UK’s energy needs, and is expected to operate for 60 years. The project is key in helping the UK achieve its net-zero targets by 2050 and will significantly enhance the country’s energy security.
This contract extension reflects Sizewell C’s continued confidence in the ICOSH consortium. At Tractebel, we are privileged to bring over 60 years of nuclear expertise and the civil engineering know-how gained from Hinkley Point C and other major projects in France, Belgium, and beyond to support the successful delivery of Sizewell C. This project not only contributes to the UK’s low-carbon energy future, but also reinforces our competences in nuclear new build, which will directly benefit our core markets.
Andrea Carletto
Head of Nuclear, UK, Tractebel
Being a key partner in the delivery of Sizewell C reflects our commitment to supporting the nation’s sustainable energy future and we’re proud to continue supporting our client in this ambitious programme. The successful delivery of the initial scope laid a strong foundation, showcasing the expertise and dedication of our teams across the consortium. This extension is a recognition of that success and allows us to deliver even greater value as the project progresses. We’re honoured to strengthen our collaboration with Sizewell C and play our part in delivering the infrastructure that will power the UK for generations to come.
Francois-Xavier Basselot
Managing Director Europe & Africa, Energy & Sustainable Cities, Egis
Sizewell C builds directly on the experience and innovation developed during Hinkley Point C, giving us the opportunity to deliver with greater efficiency and reduced cost, compared with the development of a new reactor design. Having continuity across the supply chain is key to maintaining momentum, and we’re pleased to have Egis and the ICOSH consortium involved once again to help us tackle this complex and critical part of the programme.
Tilly Spencer
Technical Director, Sizewell C, EDF Energy