Hinkley Point C: A Nuclear Build‑Up Story with Extra Time and Ounces of Money
When you think of skyscrapers, gin and tonic, or the latest blockbuster, you might not expect nuclear energy to be in the mix. But Hinkley Point C in Somerset is turning heads—though not because of the drama on screen, but because of its 15‑month* delay and a budget that’s ballooned by £2.9 bn.
Team EDF, joined hand‑in‑hand by China General Nuclear Power Corp, is pushing forward with the promise that Unit 1 will fire up by the end of 2025. They’re winding up a £21.5 bn – £22.5 bn price tag, a jump of nearly £2 bn over the original estimate.
The Playbook for Delayed Delivery
- Unit 1 launch target: December 2025.
- Safety and quality: No shortcuts—every bolt and circuit is double‑checked.
- Engineers overlapping: EDF’s UK and French teams, on‑site contractors, and suppliers all play in sync.
- Groundworks hiccups: Strenuous earthwork on stubborn soil added unexpected costs.
Perils and Triumphs, as told by Mr. Stuart Crooks
“We’re hitting our milestones,” croaked the managing director, “but the risk of delay is creeping up a bit. Our schedule stays the same, and we’ll bring power to the UK in 2025.”
He continued, “After finishing the earthworks, we discovered that the ground was harsher than we anticipated—so we spent a few extra bucks to get it done on time.” He added that the European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) adaptation required more equipment, leading to larger spaces and a more robust design “to meet UK safety standards.”
Key Takeaways
- Higher cost = more safety guarantees.
- Delayed time = more rigorous engineering.
- Future generations’ benefit = cleaner power for years to come.
So, while the scoreboard shows a slower climb and a heftier budget, the end goal is to bring the UK a reliable, safe, and sustainable nuclear power station that will serve future generations.
