industry link - december 2013

Timeline of Nuclear Energy

A BREADTH OFOPPORTUNITIESACROSS CUMBRIA

AN INTRODUCTION TO PLUTONIUM REACTORS

Hinkley Point CDeal Struck

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MAGAZINE OF THE UK NUCLEAR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

NIA.ORG WINTER / 2013

GOVERNMENT AND INDUSTRY STRIKE PRICE DEAL

TAKES THE SUPPLY CHAIN EVER CLOSER TO SECURING A NEW PHASE

OF HIGH QUALITY WORK. MANUFACTURING CONTRACTS ARE VITAL FOR THE UK. TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE NEW BUILD PLANS, THE UK

MUST DEMONSTRATE QUALITY, CAPABILITY AND CAPACITY.

Welcome to IndustryLink

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The Nuclear Industry Association (NIA) is the trade association and representative voice of the UK’s civil nuclear industry. We represent 62,000 UK nuclear workers across more than 260 member companies.

INAUGURALREPORT FROMCHIEF NUCLEARINSPECTOR

SNAPSHOT

Design and Creative Direction thomasmatthews.com

“ China is already largely self-reliant in reactor design and construction, but there are opportunities for international cooperation”

PAGE 23OPINION

BIG NUMBERS ADD UP TO SUCCESS FOR SOUTH WEST PAGE 4

Editor - Alastair Evans Art Editor - Dan Powney

Contributors Rupert Lewis, Peter Haslam, Keith Parker, Hannah Randle, Stephanie McKenna, Furah Naeem, Chris Savage, Nigel Cann – EDF Energy, Baroness Verma – DECC, with additional thanks to World Nuclear News

The agreement reached between Government and EDF Energy on Hinkley Point C is extremely welcome news for the UK supply chain and a tremendous opportunity for British business that must not be missed. We now have 18 months to create robust business cases and explore joint-venture opportunities. In this issue of the magazine we look at the implications of the agreement, the contractors that have been announced, and the agreement reached between EDF Energy and the trade unions. With the Government reviewing the options for plutonium reprocessing, we take a look at the three different reactor’s which have been put forward by AREVA, Candu and GE Hitachi. The prospects for a Geological Disposal Facility are also under consideration and Junior Minister at the Department of Energy and Climate Change, Baroness Verma argues on page 15 why it is vital we secure a site through a newly developed voluntarism process. 2013 has been an incredibly exciting and interesting year for the UK’s nuclear industry and we are in no doubt that 2014 will provide plenty of hard work and many surprises!

Alastair Evans [email protected]

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On 21st October 2013 the Government and EDF Energy agreed the Contract for Difference, which will determine the price consumers will pay for the electricity generated by Hinkley Point C. This agreement guarantees the future of nuclear in the UK and its competitiveness as a low carbon source of generation. The strike price will be £89.50 per megawatt hour if a further project at Sizewell C goes ahead, or £92.50 with-out a second nuclear plant. The proposed Olympic-scale project will employ more than 5,000 people at the peak of construction, 900 people once

operational, and create a lasting industrial legacy to enable the UK to compete in the global nuclear market, anticipated to be worth £1 trillion by 2030. The agreed strike price, which includes the wholesale cost of electricity as well as the costs associated with building and financing major new infrastructure, dem-onstrates that nuclear power is currently the lowest cost source of clean energy. Lord Hutton, Chairman of the Nuclear Industry Association, said: “Today’s very welcome agreement confirms to investors and the UK nuclear supply chain that new nuclear build is a

reality. This major infrastructure project will give a vital boost to British industry, and create tens of thousands of new jobs and opportunities in construction, manufacturing and operations. With strong cross-party and public support nuclear energy will make a significant contribution to a balanced energy mix, providing the clean, afford-able and reliable electricity that is the bedrock of a successful economy.” The agreement with Government is subject to the EDF Board’s Final Investment Decision on the major infrastructure project.

Rt Hon David Cameron MP

Hinkley Point C Deal Struck

This is a very big day for our country: the f rst time we've built a new nuclear power station for a very long time.... kick-starting again this industry, providing thousands of jobs and providing long-term, safe and secure supplies of electricity far into the future.

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“ This is a landmark deal which will help us meet our future energy challenges, while boosting jobs and growth. New nuclear plants must be a fundamental feature of our future energy landscape, and Hinkley Point C is the starter gun to securing the investment we need.”

John Cridland, Director General CBI

“WE ARE CREATING ONE OF THE MOST ATTRACTIVE ELECTRICITY INVESTMENT

MARKETS IN THE WORLD – AND THIS IS A CLEAR SIGN THAT INVESTORS ARE ALREADY

RESPONDING, EVEN BEFORE OUR ELECTRICITY MARKET REFORMS

BECOME LAW.”

EDWARD DAVEY MP SECRETARY OF STATE

FOR ENERGY

“THIS IS A POSITIVE AND ENCOURAGING STEP TOWARDS

THE DEVELOPEMENT OF HINKLEY POINT C AND THE VAST

OPPORTUNITIES THIS WILL BRING FOR SOMERSET BUSINESSES AND

THE COUNTRY AS A WHOLE.”

RUPERT COX, CEO SOMERSET CHAMBER

OF COMMERCE

4 — WINTER | 2013

ith a project this size, and the first new nuclear power station to be built in the UK for more than

twenty years it is easy to be over-whelmed by the big numbers. 25,000 job opportunities will be created during construction. At least 3 million tonnes of concrete poured – that’s 75 times more than was used to build the Millennium Stadium in Wales. 230,000 tonnes of steel used, or enough to build a railway track from London to Rome. Enough electricity produced to supply almost six million homes. By any measure it is an impressive and nationally important opportunity to renew our ageing infrastructure and to power the low carbon future of the UK. We’re working hard to develop our supply chain, identifying UK companies that can supply the forgings, pumps, valves, cranes, electronics, piping and other parts and services that we need. Some 57% of the economic opportunities for Hinkley Point C will be realised here in the UK. But for me, it is also about something else. I started out in the industry as an apprentice. I want to see local young people have the same fantastic career opportunities that I have been fortunate enough to experience.

Hinkley Point C will be crucial for the UK as a whole, but creating lasting economic benefit to the area around the power station is as much of a priority for me. I want to ensure that as many local people as possible can take advantage of the opportunities that the project will provide. The construction and operation of HPC will provide a significant boost for local employment, with at least 5,000 people from Somerset expected to work directly on the project. That’s why EDF Energy is investing in local people, equipping them with the necessary capabilities ranging from construction and energy skills to training in business and enterprise. Our investment has included multi-million funding for a new construction skills and innovation centre as well as an energy skills centre, both in partnership with Bridgwater College. We have also invested in ‘Hinkley Ready’ and ‘Hinkley Enterprise’ schemes at West Somerset College to help local students. We are championing the “Inspire” education programme to ensure that the opportunities for young people in Somerset are maximised through a pipe-line from education to apprenticeships, degree courses and into future sustain-able employment.

There will be more than 400 appren-ticeships created during the project, some of whom will have gone through our Access to Apprenticeships scheme – an innovative training scheme to help those with potential but who need help getting the right skills and qualifications to reach the apprentice entry level. Our plans also have the potential to provide substantial opportunities for local companies. Working alongside Somerset Chamber of Commerce, we already have around 1,500 Somerset businesses registering their interest on our supplier database; many millions of pounds of contracts have been awarded by EDF Energy to local firms even before the ground is broken. Around £100m a year will be put into the regional economy during the construction period, with the total value to the region rising to more than £2 billion over the lifetime of the project. Yes, the numbers are very big. But that shouldn’t put local people or firms off from competing for – and seizing – the big opportunities. We’re already working alongside local schools, colleges, companies and councils to make the legacy of long-term jobs and skills for the south west a reality. I’m confident we’re going to succeed.

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BY. NIGEL CANN ⁄ CONSTRUCTION DIRECTOR, HINKLEY POINT C

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Since the news of the Strike price agreement between the Government and EDF Energy, a number of contractors that will be involved in the project have been disclosed. British engineering firm Costain will be undertaking the design and delivery of the water cooling systems for the reactors at Hinkley Point C by building marine tunnels to deliver water from the Severn Estuary to site, a contract estimated to be worth £250m. Joint ventures are also on the agenda to encourage sharing of expertise and knowledge; British engineering company

Lang O’Rourke will be partnering up with Bouygues TP, a leading French construc-tion and nuclear specialist to deliver the civil engineering work and construction. The site preparation work will be carried out by Kier group and Bam Nuttall two large British construction companies; this will involve the excavation, earthworks and formation of roads and networks to allow main construction to start. These contracts will contribute to what will be a thriving supply chain representing positive steps for economic growth and development in UK infra-structure for years to come.

Hinkley Contractors Announced

C0171_13

9–11 April 2014, Manchester, UK

ADVANCINGCHEMICALENGINEERINGWORLDWIDE

Sustainable Nuclear Energy Conference

Registration now open

Key themes include:

■ Social, economics and policy

■ Spent fuel strategy

■ Sustainability of the fuel cycle

■ End of life

Visit www.icheme.org/snec2014 to view the full programme and register

C0171_13 SNEC_Industry Link HP AD.indd 1 20/11/2013 10:15

BY. KEITH PARKER

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In the NewsWith an energy crisis looming, a credit crunch to pay for and CO2 emissions to cut, nuclear is never far from the headlines.

The NIA were involved in a series of media interviews through-out the day of the Hinkley Point C strike price announcement on 21st October. NIA Chief Executive, Keith Parker took part in a phone-in discussion with Shadow Energy Minister, Tom Greatrex MP on BBC Radio 5 Live. Keith also conducted interviews with Al Jazeera, Huw Edwards on BBC News 24 and with Jeff Randall on the Sky News channel. The NIA’s Chairman, Lord Hutton appeared on BBC Radio 4’s PM programme.

On the week of the Hinkley announcement, the BBC’s Question Time programme focused on consumer energy bills, the UK’s new nuclear programme and the Government’s energy policy. Environmentalist and writer Jonathon Porritt appeared on the BBC’s ‘This Week’ programme to attack the Governments decision to sign a strike price agreement for new nuclear with EDF Energy. After the short film, there was a debate in the studio with Jonathon Porritt, Andrew Neil, Michael Portillo and Alan Johnson MP about the coalition’s wider energy policy.

Head of Communications, Kirsty Alexander appeared on BBC Humberside and Lincolnshire radio station to debate with Green Party representative Andrew Cooper on topics including the strike price agreement and nuclear decommissioning — with a particular focus on nuclear waste management.

Pro-nuclear documentary, Pandora’s Promise opened in the UK on 13th November. The documentary focuses on the views of a number of previously anti-nuclear environmentalists including Stewart Brand, Gwyneth Cravens, Mark Lynas, Richard Rhodes and Michael Shellenberger to demystify many of the myths surrounding civil nuclear power generation. The main argument put forward by the interviewees is that nuclear power is a safe and clean energy source which has to play a crucial role in mitigating the problem of anthropogenic climate change. For more information about the film and a list of upcoming screenings visit - http://pandoraspromise.com

Channel 4’s Science editor, Tom Clarke, visited the National Nuclear Laboratory at Sellafield to find out if “plutonium (could) be the key to our salvation.” In his report there were interviews with Dr Des Wright (NNL), pro-nuclear environmentalist, Mark Lynas, Dr Adrian Simper (NDA) and Ruth Balogh from Friends of the Earth. After discussing the various benefits of plutonium, Tom Clarke explained that Channel 4 had been informed that the Government have decided to delay their decision on the UK’s plutonium stockpile until the next Parliament.

Following the short film, Jon Snow chaired a debate in the Channel 4 studio between Green Party MP, Caroline Lucas and the Director of Pandora’s Promise, Robert Stone. The debate covered nuclear energy, fracking, German energy policy and the feasibility of scaling up renewables. You can find the report and studio debate online via - blogs.channel4.com/tom-clarke-on-science/

The most effective and credible advocates for the nuclear industry are those who work in the industry. The commitment, care and satisfaction they display in their work throughout the sector greatly influences the way in which the industry is perceived and appreciated by the outside world. NIA’s new re:generation campaign that is being launched today at Energy Choices ’13 is our way of celebrating and promoting some of the impressive individuals who make the industry what it is - a source of justifiable pride and admiration. By profiling the men and women who represent a new generation of nuclear professionals coming from diverse backgrounds, and doing a diverse range of interesting and challenging jobs we hope to present a new, fresh image for the industry. In doing so, we also aim to stimulate young people facing education and career choices into considering nuclear as a possible career path. A big challenge for the industry is to attract new blood into the sector, whether they be school-leavers seeking apprenticeships, or graduates, or those with skills acquired in other sectors seeking new horizons and opportunities. Nuclear offers long-term, high quality work that is full of challenge and interest, and the testimony of the individuals in the filmed profiles amply confirms this view. The re:generation campaign has been devised by the NIA team with expert support from Centreground communi-cations consultancy. The campaign will be developed and delivered throughout the course of 2014 with a focused series of events and initiatives. We are grateful for those who have already given their time to become involved, and we welcome the active participation and support from all NIA members. In addition to the re:generation materials we are publishing a booklet of photographic portraits – People behind the Power – showcasing and celebrating the workers we value so highly throughout the British nuclear industry.

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Here at the NIA we work hard to promote the benefits of nuclear power generation. There is a wealth of science, data and statistics available to help us achieve this, but we are keen to champion the human dimension that makes nuclear great, by presenting the faces behind the figures! With the help of professional photog-rapher Gregoire Bernardi, the NIA’s Dan Powney and Stephanie McKenna visited our broad membership to capture these people behind the power. The resulting work will be published in a book of portraits in early December and will help to support other resources the NIA use to engage with government, decision makers and the public.

People Behind the Power

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Milestone reached for Finnish EPR

The reactor vessel head at Olkiluoto 3 has been installed. This marks the completion of the installation of heavy equipment at the first EPR plant site. The successful installation of the 170 tonne vessel head is an important milestone in the project as the unit is now, “the first EPR with a fully equipped reactor vessel, which is ready to accom-modate a core of fuel assemblies.” Teollisuuden Voima Oyj, the Finnish power company who are constructing the plant estimate that the they may start regular electricity production in 2016. EPR’s are also under construction at Flamaville 3 in northern France and at Taisahn 1 and 2 in South-East China.

Computer modelling used for AP1000

Advanced computer modelling is being utilised to help in the construction process of two AP1000 units at Vogtle and VC Summer in Georgia and South Carolina. The innovative computer technology allows engineers to create and test part of the plant before construction begins.

Managing the process for the con-struction firms, Southern Company and SCE&G is Chicago Bridge & Iron (CB&I). In tandem with the plant designer West-inghouse's WEMMEX application, CB&I are using Bentley Systems' i-models in planning the construction work packages to revise some 8,000 3-D design models each day. The modelling process allows engineers to accommodate alterations from the basic design necessitated by other parts of the construction process.

Fuel removal from Unit 4 at Fukushima

Engineers at the Fukushima Daiichi plant have completed the final checks before they began removing fuel from the storage pond at Unit 4. Initial works will involve a fuel transport container being placed in the storage pool using the sites main crane. Workers will then use the smaller re-fuelling crane to move fuel assemblies one by one from their vertical storage racks to the container. When this is full it will be sealed, lifted from the water by the main crane, placed on the service floor for decontami-nation and then taken through a special route to a vehicle that will move it across the site to be unloaded at the site's shared storage facility. This process will be repeated until the pool is empty.

Jordan selects Rosatom to supply its nuclear technologyThe Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom have been selected as the pre-ferred bidder to supply the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan with its first ever nuclear power plant. The initial reactor of the two-unit plant is expected to start operating in 2020. Khaled Toukan, Chairman of the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission (JAEC), told the country's official news agency Petra that Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom will build the plant. Rosatom's reactor export sub-sidiary AtomStroyExport (ASE) will be the supplier of the nuclear technology while Rusatom Overseas will be the strategic partner and operator of the power plant. It was also announced that Russia will contribute 49% of the project's cost, reported to be $10 billion, with the Jordanian government providing the remaining 51%. However, it has been stated that the financing of the plant is yet to be finalised. Although the site location of the two new reactors remain unclear, Jordanian officials have stated that they intend to start building a 750-1000 MWe reactor in 2013 with a view to start operation by 2020, followed by a second unit coming on-line around 2025.

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An introduction to plutonium reactorsBY. RUPERT LEWIS AND FURAH NAEEM

he UK currently has about 120 tonnes of plutonium stored in the UK and since the formation of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) in 2005

there has been a drive to develop a full life-cycle solution. In 2009 the NDA published a ‘credible options’ paper that discussed storage, disposal and re-use. This paper was revised in 2010 and Government undertook a public consultation in 2012. The NDA subsequently provided further advice this summer, which the Government are set to respond to shortly. For the time being, the UK’s civil plutonium is housed in safe and secure bespoke facilities at Sellafield in Cumbria and Dounreay in Scotland, pending a final decision on the best long term solution for its management. In this article we focus on the first of three options set out under the 2011 consultation - reuse as fuel, the other two being, immobilisation and direct disposal as waste & continued long term storage.

In 2011 Lord Marland of Odstock, former Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Department of Energy & Climate Change, commented, “There are currently no final plans for how the UK’s plutonium should be managed in the long-term. It is high time that we got to grips with this and developed a coherent and comprehensive plan for dealing with the issue. “We are keen to assess all the options for affordability, deliverability, value for money, safety and security.” The Governments current position is that reuse as MOX fuel is the preferred option to manage the UK's plutonium, but more information should be sought about the GE Hitachi & Candu reactors. These three options present a huge proposed investment and just like nuclear new build, developers need some certaintly from Government that progress towards a decision will be made as soon as practicable.

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PRISM reactor

GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy’s PRISM (Power Reactor Inherently Safe Module) is capable of consuming the stockpile of UK plutonium while at the same time generating clean energy. PRISM is a sodium cooled reactor based on the Argonne National Laboratory Experimental Breeder Reactor II, which operated successfully from 1964 until 1994. GEH’s approach would incorporate the UK plutonium into a robust metal alloy fuel specifically for use in a PRISM power block generating approximately 622MWe. The PRISM reactors are designed to be on the same site as the PRISM fuel fabrication facility with the entire installation having a total size of about 20 hectares. Co-location of the reactors and fuel fabrication facility avoids the need to transport plutonium powder or plutonium-bearing fuel for reactor reuse, as well as the commercial risk associated with selling plutonium-bearing fuel to third party reactor operators. PRISM fuel can accept a relatively high proportion of pluto-nium in the alloy (approximately 20%), which minimises fuel fabrication costs, fuel handling, and the quantity of used fuel for disposal. It also allows the stockpile of plutonium to be reused at a reasonably sized and affordable plant. The PRISM fuel and reactor core design allow for a simplified fuel manufacturing process, which greatly reduces fuel manufac-turing costs and allows for greater localisation due to its safe and compact design. With some additional equipment, the PRISM plutonium disposition solution can be expanded into a used fuel recycling complex that can generate electricity from other spent reactor fuels and continue the plutonium stockpile disposition, ultimately extracting more than 90% of the available energy from the nuclear energy resource. Conventional light water reactors extract less than 1% of the available energy. In addition, the recycling of the fuel depletes the long-term radioactivity to the point where it would be less radioactive than natural uranium in about 300 years instead of the hundreds of thousands of years normally required for current reactors.

→ PRISM plants could, if they were to fission all the plutonium currently stored at Sellafield, meet all of the UK energy needs for the next 100 years

→ PRISM is the only existing technology capable of processing all the stored plutonium oxide powder in the UK civil plutonium stockpile and further, closing the fuel cycle and creating 1000 permanent jobs

→ Over its estimated 60-year operating life, a PRISM plant is capable of dispositioning the entire UK plutonium stockpile; using more PRISM power-blocks will result in more energy extracted from this energy resource

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CANDU reactor

Candu Energy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNC-Lavalin Inc., and GE-Hitachi Canada aim to deliver an integrated plutonium management and electricity generation solution for the UK’s civilian plutonium stockpile. CANMOX is a safe, proven and competitive solution (using MOX in a thermal-fission CANDU reactor) that would deliver “early electricity” before reusing these stockpiles to generate up to 3GW of low carbon power for up to 60 years (30 years fuelled by plutonium). The CANMOX solution would provide twin policy wins, with reliable, economical low carbon power and nuclear proliferation reduction.

There are currently 47 CANDU or CANDU-type reactors operating in seven countries on four continents. The CANDU 6 reactor is a reliable, high capacity factor reactor with an excellent safety and operational record. It is known for on- schedule and on-budget international project delivery; since 1996, seven projects have been delivered this way. The latest incremental development of the CANDU design is the Generation III Enhanced CANDU 6 (EC6) which recently successfully completed the final Canadian Pre-Project Design Review.

The CANMOX project includes a MOX fuel plant and four MOX-ready EC6 reactors. CANMOX fuel has been proven by both test and operation in prototype CANDU units. CANMOX fuel fabrica-tion uses the well-established automated processes for the simple easy-to-handle CANDU fuel.

→ The CANMOX solution places significant value on the UK civilian plutonium stockpile; the release of that value is related to the earliest commencement of the plutonium disposition mission. Fees for materials used in CANMOX fuel will create value in the UK decommissioning process and minimise and eventually eliminate ongoing costs associated with material storage

→ The CANMOX project will create 12,000 direct and supply chain jobs during two phases of construction and a further 1,500-2,000 highly-skilled full-time operational jobs in the UK for its 60 years’ operation

→ The CANMOX project targets UK localisation of 80% of the project value; 70% localisation has already been successfully delivered in less sophisticated engineering environments

MOX in LWR reactors

The proposed AREVA solution for UK Plutonium management relies on reuse of Plutonium as MOX in LWR reactors. This solution provides certainty and reliability thanks to:

1 Proven technology of MOX fuel manufacturing, based on the AREVA MELOX experience2 Track record of fuel use in LWR reactors, both PWRs and BWRs, over the world.

For more than 18 years, MOX fuel manufacturing has proven successful at the MELOX plant in Marcoule, feeding more than 40 reactors worldwide. AREVA is in discussion to provide similar plant designs to other countries (USA, China, Japan) and began, in 2013, the manufacturing of MOX for the Nether-lands. With a parity performance equivalent to traditional UOX, MOX burning allows the UK to consume the Plutonium in 45 years. This project would boost the development of engineering and manufacturing skills and the quality standards among the supply chain. AREVA would also support the supply chain in their approach to overseas markets. MOX fuel use in EPR is a breakthrough solution for UK Plutonium stockpile reuse. The EPR reactor is a GEN3+ PWR with a generating capacity of 1600MWe . The EPR design is the fruit of decades of R&D programmes, offers a significantly enhanced level of safety as well as featuring major innovations in further preventing internal accidents and external hazards. 100% MOX fuel management in an EPR reactor has been proven feasible with only minor adaptations. Four EPR units are already under construction: in Finland, France and China. In the UK, EDF and AREVA have achieved major milestones with the government permission for the EPR construction at Hinckley Point C.

→ The French have used MOX technology for 40 years and currently supply MOX fuel to over 30 reactors worldwide

→ The MOX project would bring more than 1000 jobs and a ratio of purchase costs towards local suppliers of 70%. As a comparison, the MELOX plant accounts for over £100m annual purchase costs, 70% of which goes to local suppliers

→ AREVA MOX Solution for UK Pu management relies on the manufacture of MOX fuel in a new MOX plant and the efficient burning of MOX fuel in UK LWR reactors

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Securing Britain’s Energy Future

The electricity capacity margin has increased year on year since 2007/08 until 2011 due to both a decrease in peak demand and an increase in capacity. However in 2013, reports from the Royal Academy of engineering suggest that the electricity capacity margin is decreasing, thus the margin between the total ex-pected generation and the expected level of electricity demand is narrowing. Should this trend continue it raises valid concerns for the security of our energy supply. There are no definitive criteria that one can measure a secure energy supply by, but these points explain what is expected: customers should have uninterrupted access to energy sources when required, meaning energy supplies need to be readily available whilst guaranteeing price security. Also with government decarbonisation targets in place the source needs to meet legal requirements deeming it low carbon. The capacity margin decrease can be attributed largely to old coal and oil plants planned closure, as they opt out of the European Union's Large Combustion Plant Directive (LCPD) that dictates a reduction in Sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter. After 20,000 hours of operation these plants are planned to close as part of LCPD opt out clause. Not only are the older plants experienc-ing closure, a number of CCGT plants have recently been mothballed for economic reasons until deemed profitable enough to run, this too has led to a reduction in the generating capacity. By 2015 it is

expected a total of nine plants will be out of commission, taking a combined 12GW capacity off the grid. However it is one form of energy alone that will deliver the hardest hit to capacity margins; by 2025 eight nuclear plants will have reached their end of life expectancy and shutdown, removing 8.86GW of capacity off the grid. Without building new plants or fitting older ones with new technology to meet decarbonisation targets, the capacity margin is likely to continue to decrease placing pressure on the UK energy supply. In 2012, 43% of the energy used in the UK was imported, though energy is imported from a range of suppliers to ensure the risk is distributed this still leaves the UK open to volatile market prices which will lead to higher energy prices for consumers. In addition we become susceptible in the face of foreign disruptions which will have a knock on effect on international energy markets; much like the Libya conflict of 2011 that resulted in 1.6mb/d of oil production halted which led to a 10-20% increase in oil prices. Britain has moved from being a net exporter since the 1980s to becoming a net importer in 2004 but with global energy demands on the rise it is important to work towards lowering our dependence on imported sources to create a strength-ened risk adverse energy infrastructure. With North Sea resources depleted and a significant dependence on imports, the need for another large capacity, cleaner

energy source is paramount which leads us to look to nuclear. Currently nuclear energy provides base load electricity accounting for 19% of the energy mix on an average day. With the strike price agreement made public, the hope is that this will encourage investors and pave the way for future new build projects to maintain this vital contribution. The challenge for the UK is to develop a stable, secure and low carbon energy mix that incorporates a range of technologies which will ensure the capacity margin increases year on year. As the government focus on decarbon-isation as reflected in the Energy Bill currently passing through the House of Lords, building nuclear plants becomes an essential part of meeting this challenge. It is clear that investing in nuclear power will contribute significantly in meeting the energy demand with its large generating capabilities and base load supply. It is expected that peak energy demand will increase as colder winters approach and government urge the public to keep the heating on despite the forthcoming energy price rises. In order to meet this demand the capacity of power generation needs to increase to a greater extent. This needs to be done in a clean and affordable way that will guarantee long term security and eradicate the fear of possible power outages, a substantial set of requirements but all of which nuclear energy can offer.

BY. FURAH NAEEM

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Proposals include a period of national awareness raising; providing greater clarity at an early stage about the scale and timing of community benefits and recasting the siting process to be more continuous, with an ongoing ‘Right of Withdrawal’ and fewer prescribed decision points. It is proposed that communi-ties would be represented throughout the siting process by the most local competent authority. In England, this would be the district council in two-tier areas or unitary authority in unitary areas. We also propose to bring the GDF within the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project planning regime, as set out in the Planning Act 2008. We believe, given the scale and the national importance of the GDF project, that this is the most appropriate approach for the project. Ultimately though, the proposed revised siting process is designed to provide more information at a much earlier stage on issues such as geology and socio-economic impacts. The consultation, which has been issued jointly by the UK Government, the Welsh Government and the Northern Ireland Executive, closes on 5 December. We have been hosting a series of events during November and December, including with nuclear industry representatives, to elicit views and help inform responses. I continue to welcome views of all industry representatives from across the country on the proposals and would encourage you to submit your responses, before the deadline, online:https://econsultation.decc.gov.uk/decc-policy/managing- radioactive-waste-safely-siting-process

BARONESS VERMA Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Department of Energy and Climate Change

“GOVERNMENT IS COMMITTED TO DELIVERING A SAFE AND PERMANENT SOLUTION FOR MANAGING THE UK'S

RADIOACTIVE WASTE”

Consulting on plans to manage the UK’s radioactive waste

Anyone reading this will be familiar with the UK’s legacy of radioactive waste. We must have robust plans in place to tackle both this legacy and waste generated from proposed new nuclear power stations. Government is committed to delivering a safe and permanent solution for managing the UK’s radioactive waste in an under-ground geological disposal facility (GDF). This is internationally recognised as the preferred approach, protecting both human health and the natural environment. There are many benefits for communities that wish to engage with the GDF programme: it is a multi-billion pound project that will provide skilled employment for hundreds of people over many decades. This is likely to have knock-on positive effects on local industries that support the facility and its workforce and could increase employment throughout the local supply chain. We are currently running a national consultation on revised proposals for finding a site to host a GDF. The proposals focus on specific issues in the site selection process: decision making roles; technical delivery of a GDF and community benefits associated with hosting it. At the heart of our proposal remains the intention to work in partnership with communities willing to participate in the GDF programme. In 2008, the Government launched a White Paper setting out a framework for implementing geological disposal, which led to three local authorities in Cumbria expressing an interest. After progressing through the first three stages, two local authorities (Copeland and Allerdale Borough Councils) voted in favour of moving forward but Cumbria County Council voted against progressing to stage four. As progression to the next stage required all three local authorities to vote in favour, the process stopped there. The proposals we’re now consulting on identify potential ways to help communities across the country engage in this process with more confidence. We have considered the experience in Cumbria, as well as evidence from a public call for evidence earlier this year and international experiences of implementing geological disposal.

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20 — WINTER | 2013

Cutting-edge nuclear research facility opens in Cumbria

n Friday, September 6th, Dalton Nuclear Institute of The University of Manchester officially opened its Cumbrian research facility.

The base was established with an initial £20 million joint investment by the University and the Nuclear Decom-missioning Authority (NDA). Situated on the Westlakes Science and Technology Park, near Whitehaven, the DCF will bring world-leading academic research in nuclear energy to West Cumbria. NIA Chairman John Hutton opened the site commenting, “I commend The University of Manchester and the NDA for the foresight, vision and commitment they have shown in creating this new Dalton Cumbrian Facility — a world- leading facility for nuclear research, for nuclear skills development and a major driver for socio-economic growth in West Cumbria.”

THE FACILITY AIMS TO SIGNIFICANTLY ENHANCE THE UK NUCLEAR RESEARCH AND EDUCATION CAPABILITY WITH A SPECIFIC FOCUS ON

RADIATION SCIENCE AND NUCLEAR ENGINEERING DECOMMISSIONING.

O

Facility Director Professor Simon Pimblott, one of the world’s leading experts in the area of radiation science, welcomes guests at the opening of the Dalton Cumbrian Facility.

2013 | WINTER — 21

DESIGNED TO ACCOMMODATE AROUND 50 POSTGRADUATE RESEARCHERS, LECTURERS AND OPERATING PERSONNEL

FROM 2015 AN ADDITIONAL 2.5MV SINGLE-ENDED ACCELERATOR WILL BE INSTALLED AT DCF, CREATING

THE WORLD’S HIGHEST ENERGY DUAL BEAM ACCELERATOR SYSTEM, AND BROADENING THE UK ACADEMIC RESEARCH

CAPABILITY IN DEVELOPING MATERIALS FOR USE IN GENERATION IV AND FUSION REACTORS.

22 — WINTER | 2013

EDF Energy and unions reach agreement on Hinkley Point C

he agreement applies to electrical and mechanical workers who will work on the project. It confirms their pay and

conditions of employment, including welfare facilities and training. This latest milestone follows the signing of similar agreements with unions in June 2013 for civil workers, as well as an overarching agreement establishing the framework for industrial relations for the project.

Together, the agreements play their part in EDF Energy's commitment to work together with unions and contractors to create a climate for positive industrial relations which promotes safety, quality and productivity. Putting these agreements in place now is an important step towards ensuring the project is ready for delivery. It demonstrates a partner-ship approach between EDF Energy, unions and contractors and their joint commitment to the success of the project.

T

“ This groundbreaking agreement reflects the importance that we place on partnerships with our employees and with trade unions to help deliver the UK’s first new nuclear power in a generation. Hinkley Point C has the potential to create 25,000 job opportunities in the UK during its construction, including over 400 apprentices, and it will create 900 jobs when operational. It is important that these jobs are covered by an agreement promoting the very best standards in industrial relations. I am pleased that EDF Energy, Unite and GMB will work together to provide a high class work force for the construction of Hinkley Point C and help rebuild the nation’s nuclear industry.”

Vincent De Rivaz, Chief Executive EDF Energy

EDF Energy, the GMB and Unite trade unions have reached a major new labour agreement for workers who will build the planned Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset.

2013 | WINTER — 23

MOU signed between China and the UK

CHRIS SAVAGE Consultant - Project Management [email protected]

Cooperation between UK and Chinese companies across a range of civil nuclear activities in both countries will be encouraged under a MOU signed between the two governments. The announcement of potential Chinese involvement in the Hinkley Point C project is one important part of that cooperation. Under the MOU, both governments will work to promote commercial opportunities in both countries. It creates opportunities for UK companies in the Chinese new build and decommissioning markets as well as for Chinese companies in the UK. The memorandum sets a strategic framework for collaboration on invest-ment, technology, construction and expertise. The outline of the MOU was discussed at a workshop in Beijing in October, at which the NIA and UK companies met counter-parts from China. It will be followed up by a China-UK working group to explore opportunities in both markets, and the first meetings will take place early next year. In parallel with the signing of the MOU, there was the announcement that the NDA subsidiary International Nuclear Service has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chinese Nuclear Power Engineering Company (CPNE) to share UK experience on radioactive waste management. This will start with some initial training activities for

Chinese technicians in the UK which is already under way. The first objective is to improve the understanding of CNPE delegates in the areas of UK spent fuel and nuclear waste management, decom-missioning and transport, so that more focused work can follow. The MOU opens the way for Chinese companies to participate in the UK civil nuclear programme, not only at Hinkley Point C but in the future potentially taking a majority stake in projects. Chinese companies are keen to understand the UK regulatory and policy environment including the process of Electricity Market Reform and how UK companies can contribute to their understanding. As well as supporting Chinese invest-ment in Britain, the memorandum will ensure that British companies can be part of China’s multi billion pound new nuclear programme. China is currently the fastest growing nuclear market in the World, with 30 nuclear plants under construction and more planned. These include the Taishan plant in southern China, an existing collaboration between EDF and the China General Nuclear Power Company, where the MOU was signed. China is already largely self-reliant in reactor design and construction, but there are opportunities for international cooperation and these will be encouraged under the MOU.

The NIA will be part of the practical implementation of the MOU which established a working group composed of government and industry from both countries. The working group itself is expected to meet twice a year, with meetings taking place in both China and the UK, but it is also intended to spin off other contacts and dialogue around specific opportunities. During the workshop in Beijing when the MOU was discussed, the NIA also held its first meeting with its counterpart, the China Nuclear Energy Association. The NIA hopes that further collaboration will follow as cooperation between our member companies is deepened. The full text of the MOU can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attach-ment_data/file/251211/signed__MOU_EN_130924_UKSIDE.pdf

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David Powell of GE Hitachi with the PRISM technology model

New Build panel of speakers during Q&A

Speakers in the opening Decommissioning session (LtoR) Roger Todd (KDC Group), Kirsty Alexander (NIA), Ken Robertson (Chair, Nuvia) and Ian Adsley (Nuvia)

NuGen team – Gold sponsors (LtoR) Robert Zadora, Manuel Marco, John McNamara and Rosie Mathisen

Westinghouse team – Gold sponsors (LtoR)Mike Waite, Andy Lund and Ian Grant

The National Nuclear Laboratory team

George Beveridge opened eboc’13

2013 | WINTER — 25

The NIA’s twitter account became one of, if not the most important member of the communications team through-out the Party Political Conference season. Over the four week season, the account gathered over 150 new followers and was used to attract delegates to the NIA’s standing-room only fringe events at each conference. The account was also utilised to draw delegates to NIA member fringe events and receptions as well as providing updates on the news and opinions coming from inside the conference secure zone. On the day of the Hinkley Point strike price announcement, the twitter account helped the NIA promote our various media interviews, the press conference with DECC Secretary of State, Edward Davey MP and EDF Energy, the subsequent debate in the House of Commons, and the various opinions and view-points coming from the Prime Minister, national newspapers, broadcasting media and the rest of the twitter community. Re-tweeted on the day by @edfehinkleyc, @FORATOM_nuclear, @AlstomPower, @edfenergycomms, @jreedmp amongst many others, the NIA was able to reach thousands in the twittersphere to promote the impact the strike price agreement will have on the economy and job growth as well as the role it will play in securing the UK’s energy supply in the future. At Energy Choices 2013, you can connect with the NIA and the other delegates through #EC13. Use the hash tag to send us questions, views and opinions about the presentations, interviews and panel sessions on the day.

The Twittersphere

@Number10gov – PM: 1st nuclear power station in a generation to be built in Britain means £16bn investment coming in & 25K jobs http://bit.ly/18Ps2A3#BuildingBritain #Hinkley

Who to follow?Want information on nuclear and other relevant topics? This issue we recommend you follow:

@daltonahs@afneil@TomClarkeC4@WorldNuclear@nucleargrads

#Nuclear icurrently providing 22.2% of UK’s ##electricity – #Hinkley C will provide up to 7% when operating #secure @NIAUK

A Breadth of Opportunities Across Cumbria

Cumbria remains a global hub for nuclear energy expertise and the recent EBOC’13 conference, highlighted the jobs and investment that are vital to the area. The event, organised by Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster brought together all sectors and elements of the energy industry and its supply chain, with representation from business, research, academia and government. West Cumbria is poised to deliver over 3,000 new jobs in the next 15 years, capitalising on a potential £90 billion worth of investment in the low-carbon energy industry.

Decommissioning will continue to be the corner-stone of work in the region. It is estimated £300bn will be spent on decommissioning globally by 2030 – that’s 200 plants set to close globally. But there is a shortage of expertise. By developing skills at Sellafield, the region can place itself in a strong position to export these skills. Research and development was also looked at by speakers at the event, Phil Reeve, Head of Strat-egy and Technical Decommissioning at Sellafield, confirmed they have earmarked £4million for new research and development next year. He said;“Hopefully we will have a ‘decommissioning belt’ here like the Formula 1 belt in Oxfordshire.” Across all conference sessions, there was one common thread that stood out: the need to innovate and diversify across all sectors to harness the many opportunities for Cumbrian energy success, both globally and on their door step.

FURTHER INFORMATIONIf you would like to know more about the BECBC or would like to express early interest in eboc’15, please contact Hazel Duhy:

VISITwww.britainsenergycoastbusinesscluster.co.uk

CALL016973 44905

[email protected]

“ eboc’13 boasted a spectacular line up of speakers parallel to that of any national energy conference.”

John McNamara, NuGeneration Ltd

Twitter Count

Followers: 1,292Tweets: 1,270

26 — WINTER | 2013

NEWS IN BRIEF

AREVA has used its innovative technology to complete a first of a kind inspection for the lifetime extension of a reactor’s primary system in the United States. During a recent plant outage, AREVA performed an inspection of the reactor primary system using the highly sophisticated “SUSI” robot. This small, remote-controlled submarine navigates the primary system of a nuclear power plant and is equipped with technology to inspect components through ultrasonic and visual testing. SUSI evaluates the status of the reactor internals, and carries out an inspection that is critical in confirming the safety of these components for the plant’s planned long-term operation. “SUSI is a remarkable technology, which can be adapted for all types of reactors, enabling utilities across the world to guarantee the long term safety of their operations,” said Philippe Samama, Executive Vice President of AREVA Installed Base Business Unit.

SUSI Robot used in reactor lifetime extension project

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The Office for Nuclear Regulation has announced the appointment of a new Chief Nuclear Inspector to lead its regulatory activity. Dr Andy Hall is currently ONR's First Deputy Chief Nuclear Inspector. Previously he led power reactor and nuclear fuel cycle divisions within the Health and Safety Executive's Nuclear Installations Inspectorate, and was engaged in nuclear safety analysis and research at the UK Atomic Energy Authority. This followed an early academic career, during which he gained a doctorate in theoretical astrophysics at the University of Oxford and held posi-tions in a number of its colleges.

The Office for Nuclear Regulation appoints new Chief Nuclear Inspector

2013 | WINTER — 27

he Royal Academy of Engineering have revealed in a recent study that the capacity margin of the British electricity system may continue to fall over the next

five years as old generating plants close. The capacity margin gap is defined as when the total expected generation exceeds the maximum expected level of electricity demand. As this gap narrows the UK is left at risk of not being able to meet the energy demand thus threatening security of supply. The Royal Academy of Engineering recommends that the government follow these steps in order to tackle this decreas-ing capacity margin:

→ Undertake interim measures to maintain capacity in the period before the Electricity Market Reform (EMR) package takes effect

→ Resolve the EMR process as quickly as possible

→ Resolve uncertainties regarding the carbon price floor

→ Work together with industry to foster a constructive dialogue with the public on energy policy

With a number of coal and oil plants shutting down partly due to not meeting the legislative limits on emissions under the EU Large Combustion Plant Directive (LCPD), 11.5gw of energy will be taken off the grid. In addition, four nuclear plants are scheduled to close by 2019. It is imperative energy firms invest in modernising UK plants and building new ones to provide a long term energy supply to ensure we will not be at risk of power outages.

World leading environmentalists: Jim Hansen former NASA expert, Ken Cadeira of the Carnegie Institute, Kerry Emanuel from MIT and Tom Wigley from the University Of Adelaide have urged politicians to back nuclear power in an open letter addressed to climate campaigners and politicians. They warned that solar and wind will not be able to meet the global energy demands, at a time when carbon dioxide emissions are rising we cannot afford to turn away technology. The letter outlines that a low carbon technology that can provide the required generating capacity in a clean way is needed as the expectation on solar and wind is unrealistic when it comes to providing power in a cheap and reliable way to the masses. They go on to say ‘the time has come for those who take the threat of global warming seriously to embrace the development and deployment of safer nuclear systems’.

Britain must act now or face power shortages within a decade

Scientists Urge Climate Groups To Back Nuclear Power

TIntroducing the new UK chapter of Women in Nuclear

We are pleased to announce that the Nuclear Industry Association and Nuclear Institute have announced their intention to establish the UK's first chapter of Women in Nuclear (WiN). The demand for a UK chapter became apparent after a recent industry consultation showed that 80% of respondents would like to participate in a women's network. The group will be a UK chapter of the established WiN global organisation which has 25,000 members across 102 countries. The WiN UK chapter will aim to fulfil the following objectives:

→ to build capacity of women within the industry, → to attract more women to choose a career in nuclear, → to raise the profile of women in the nuclear sector and to inform women in the public about nuclear energy.

In the coming months the group will establish itself formally, recruit committee members, hold events and communications to solidify their function and structure with the long term goal of creating a network valuable to women working across the nuclear industry.

28 — WINTER | 2013

Party ConferenceSeason

Each party conference season provides three weeks of unrivalled opportunities to engage with people across the political spectrum, and this year was no different. This year the NIA once again had exhibition stands at Labour and Conservative conferences as well as holding fringe events with our low carbon alliance partners at all three conferences. The fringe events, organised by Dods, were standing room only at all 3 conferences, a testament to the importance of energy on the political agenda right now. Our events attracted a host of extremely influen-tial political speakers including Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Ed Davey MP, the Shadow Minister for Climate Change Luciana Berger and Energy and Climate Change Select Committee Member Peter Aldous MP.

The NIA’s conference engagement programme is supported by sponsorship from member companies, and we would like to recognise and thank those companies that kindly supported us this year: AREVA, Sellafield Ltd, Nuclear Management Partners, Babcock & Wilcox Company, and Horizon Nuclear Power.

If you are interested in getting involved in the NIA’s presence during the 2014 conference season – the last before the 2015 general election – please contact [email protected]

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Clockwise from above: Rt Hon Ed Davey MP; Dame Sue Ion, DBE, FREng; questions come thick and fast at the Labour fringe event; Peter Aldous, Member of Parliament for Waveney in Suffolk; Luciana Burger MP, former Shadow Minister for Climate Change

NIA's Alastair Evans discusses the 2013 Jobs Map with Rt Hon Owen Paterson MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

2013 | WINTER — 29

SNAPSHOT

The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) has published what will become an annual report showcasing their view of safety across licensed civil and defence sites, security over the transport of radioactive materials, emergency preparedness and response, all areas the ONR regulates. Along with this, the UK position on tackling non proliferation, improvements through more research and lessons learned from Fukushima section are all covered. Colin Patchett, ONR’s Acting Chief Nuclear Inspector, said: “The UK has one of the best nuclear safety and security records in the world. I am confident that the nuclear industry is controlling its hazards and has plans in place to continuously improve safety and security standards.” In order to manage their tasks effectively they have for the first time

prioritised each site according to the level of regulatory attention required. This is an instrumental time for the ONR; since it was formed in April 2011 they have operated as an Agency of the Health and Safety Executive. However as the Energy Bill progresses through parliament and once it reaches final approval, ONR will become a public corporation.

ONR Publish Inaugural Chief Nuclear Inspector's Report

FURTHER INFORMATIONYou can download the full report from the ONR website:

https://news.hse.gov.uk/onr/2013/11/chief-nuclear- inspectors-report-published

30 — WINTER | 2013

ark began his career as a nuclear design engineer with Bechtel Corporation in 1977 working on Palo Verde and Limerick nuclear power plants. He then took

a promotion to be a Director of Plant Modifications and Construction at Waterford 3 with Entergy Corporation in Louisiana. He was subsequently promoted to Vice President of Decommissioning for Maine Yankee, where he led one of the most successful decommissioning projects for a large commercial nuclear power reactor – which Mark achieved at a cost and on a time schedule which is, today, considered by many to be the gold-standard for such projects. In 2000, Mark became the Vice President and Project Manager at Rocky Flats in Colorado where he led the first ever decommissioning and closure of a former nuclear weapons facility – the largest completed, under budget, environmental remediation project in US history. He was instrumental in the remediation and decommissioning successes at the Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site, South Carolina and at the East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP) Site, Oak Ridge, TN. Mark was the driving force behind putting these DOE projects back in the black again. He brought 32 years of experience in project management to the ETTP (UCOR) team with 10 years of that work being done at DOE sites. He served in numerous senior management positions, including as Director, Programme Integration for the Office for Nuclear Development and as the Senior Advisor to the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) and its predecessor the Department of Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) where he provided technical expertise on nuclear new build, decommissioning and waste management strategies for the UK government. His contri-bution to the Office for Nuclear Development is recognized across the entire UK nuclear industry. In January 2013, Mark took on an new assignment with CH2M Hill in the United

Kingdom to drive a major decommissioning proposal to the UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority that saw him traveling frequently between the UK, Colorado and his home town of Knoxville, TN where he visited his wife, Michaela and son, Michael. Mark passed away unexpectedly on September 18, 2013 in the United Kingdom while working for CH2M Hill on the bid to decommission the Magnox stations. Mark was an exceptional husband, father and advisor to work colleagues and friends alike. He had a powerful skill in spotting latent talent and providing the empowerment that helped many individual careers f lourish. A number of senior professionals today owe their careers to Mark’s leadership and remember him as a loyal friend and genuinely gifted and creative engineer with a magnificent sense of humour and rational and pragmatic approach to business. Mark made a real and lasting difference. He had a love for boating, the water and rock and roll music. Over the past four summers he was able to fulfill a lifelong dream to charter a boat crewed by his wife Michaela, son Michael and college roommates cruising between islands in the Caribbean. He received an MBA from Tulane University, MS in Nuclear Engineering from University of Arizona and a BS in Civil Engineering from Arizona State. He was a licensed PE in Mechanical Engineering and held a Senior Reactor Operator License Certification. Mark Ferri will be deeply missed on both sides of the Atlantic where he touched many lives and created lasting, valuable change in so many places. His parents, Rita and Anthony Ferri, predeceased Mark. He is survived by his wife, Michaela, his son Michael, sisters Marilyn Ferri and Monica Quinones, brothers-in-law, Stephen McGreevy, William McGreevy and Robert McGreevy.

NIA deeply regrets to announce that Mark Ferri has died. Mark was well known in the nuclear industry both here and in his native USA, and he will be sadly missed and mourned by all his friends and colleagues. There follows an obituary of Mark by his wife, Michaela to whom we send our sympathy and condolences, as well as to their son Michael, and Mark’s family.

M

A Farewell to Mark Ferri

2013 | WINTER — 31

NIA working group update

The NIA Quality Working Group & Quality Readiness in the Supply Chain (led by Andy Storer) are in the process of mapping all quality and management system groups across the industry. The aim is to form a library of the work that has been done, and to assess the gaps in research that need to be filled – with a focus on quality in the UK supply chain.

Decommissioning

Exports

The next highlight on the export calendar will be the UKTI Civil Nuclear Export Showcase. The event will take place from 27th - 29th January 2014 at the Royal National Hotel in London. This is the third showcase to

promote UK nuclear supply chain capability to senior decision makers from a number of important overseas markets. It will provide a platform for overseas delegates to learn more about the UK civil nuclear offer while UK attendees will have the opportunity to understand civil nuclear programmes in these markets.

The group met in November to hear an update on Electricity Market Reform, the plans for the siting of a Geological Disposal Facility, and a view of work being done in Europe on insurance and the 2030 Energy & Climate Policy Framework.

Legal Affairs

New Build The group chaired by newly elected,

Dr. Brian McConnell last met in October near Oxford to hear from Government and EDF Energy on the Strike Price agreement. In addition, there were presentations from Horizon, NuGen and updates on Thorium and China’s nuclear new build plans. The next meeting is scheduled to be in Bristol in March 2014.

Since the last edition of Industrylink link the NIA held a successful Decommissioning and Rad Waste Group (DG) meeting in Oxford. The DG meeting which meets three times a year regularly attracts 90+ people from across the decommissioning sector and shares best practice, case studies and commercial opportunities. The meeting is only open to NIA members allowing it to have a warm and welcoming atmosphere with interaction and social aspects linked. 2014 will prove to be another packed programme for this group with the first meeting of the year looking to meet in Cumbria in early March. If members want to know how to get more involved with the group (sponsoring, speaking or hosting) please contact the NIA secretariat at [email protected]

32 — WINTER | 2013

NEW NIA MEMBERS

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BENEFITS OF

NIA MEMBERSHIP AT NIAUK.ORG/ MEMBERSHIP-

INFORMATION

Sigma Management Development LtdSigma specialises in Collaborative Working (CW) between the customer and the major prime contractors and their supply chains. As subject matter experts, Sigma provide advice, facilitation work-shops and training in Customer Relation-ship Management, Commercial and Supply Chain Management’, ‘Pre- Contract and Business Winning’ together with CW for bilateral and alliance type relationships.

Hayward Tyler LtdHayward Tyler has operated in the nuclear market for nearly 60 years having originally provided specialist pumps to Calder Hall, the first civil nuclear power station ever built in 1956. Their facility in the USA has been meeting the highest ASME standards and Nuclear Certification requirements for over 30 years.

Ice Blasting Solutions Ltd Ice Blasting Solutions offer dry ice cleaning of nuclear power plant and machinery. Their techniques create no secondary waste or harmful chemical waste which ensures a dramatic saving in man hour costs in relation to hazardous chemical substances. It will also eliminate the potential damage to machine parts whilst eliminating secondary waste streams.

LSC GroupLSC Group is a Technical Consulting and Information Technology company, dedicated to the delivery of efficient and effective services to meet the business transformation challenges within the nuclear market. They help organisations make better decisions for the ‘Through Life Management’ of their current and future assets through two core capabilities, ‘Supportability Engineering’ along with ‘Information and Knowledge Management’.

Babcock & Wilcox CompanyHeadquartered in North Carolina, The Babcock & Wilcox Company (B&W) is a leader in clean energy technology and services, primarily for the nuclear, fossil and renewable power markets, as well as a premier advanced technology and mission critical defence contractor. B&W has locations worldwide and employs approximately 12,000 people, in addition to approximately 10,400 joint venture employees.

EMCOR Facilities Services LtdWith over 100 years experience in the UK market, EMCOR Group (UK) plc provides facilities management and sustainable business solutions for a diverse range of private and public sector organisations. EMCOR Group has over 18 years experience partnering clients on highly regulated, nuclear licensed sites, maintaining over 1500 buildings through completion of 30,000 maintenance tasks and 1500 projects annually.

East Cliff ConsultingEast Cliff Consulting was recently set up by Steve Kidd, former Deputy Director General at the World Nuclear Association. Work covers the world nuclear fuel market, national energy policies, nuclear and energy economics and analysis of over-seas nuclear markets. Educational and training courses are also offered for the nuclear sector.

Green Frog Power LtdGreen Frog Power builds and operates power stations. It is the largest long-term provider of reserve power to National Grid PLC. Securing its own sites, it handles in-house the financing, permitting and construction of its projects, including its high-voltage grid connections. It is engaged in a project to develop power stations driven by small nuclear reactors, led by its entrepreneurial founding directors and its nuclear specialists.

KPMG LLPKPMG in the UK is a leading advisor on nuclear energy working closely with both industry and governments in the UK as well as internationally through its global network of member firms. Their strengths lie in the integrated nature of their advice, designed to address the full nuclear chain and lifecycle and cover all key strategic, commercial and project issues. Together with strong credentials in structuring transactions and supporting a number

of bidding consortiums, including developing investment structures,

they can provide strategic, commercial and financial advice into a client’s nuclear strategy, business planning and pro-

gramme development process.

WELCOME

2013 | WINTER — 33

OPINION

PowerPolitics“THIS IS A REAL SHOT IN THE ARM

FOR THE UK NUCLEAR PROGRAMME, WHICH IS NOW ROLLING AGAIN WITH

A VENGEANCE”

PETER HASLAM Head of Policy NIA [email protected]

To adopt the City’s parlance, this has been a very good third quarter for nuclear. As predicted in my last column the Hinkley Point C strike price has finally been agreed - with a fair balance struck between the interests of consumers and investors. This is a real shot in the arm for the UK nuclear programme, which is now rolling again with a vengeance. Inevitably there has been some media criticism, particularly about the price of the project’s electricity. It has been argued this will be significantly above the current wholesale price. It is important to recog-nise however this will also be the case with any new large scale generating plant. Quite simply current wholesale prices are largely based on burning cheaper im-ported coal in stations built many decades ago, but with many of these coming off the bars very shortly this is unsustainable. The agreed strike price for Hinkley compares favourably to those for renewables and even new gas plants in the 2020s. Against this background last month’s announcement, made at the site in the presence of the Prime Minister himself, was welcomed by politicians of all colours. Energy issues may have become a major political hot potato – see my comments on the party conferences below - but there is still thankfully a realisation that if the country fails to invest in new low carbon generating plant quickly the lights will to go out. No politician can contemplate that on his or her watch. Further good news is that the all important Energy Bill, without which there will be no electricity market reform and specifically no contracts for difference or strike prices, continues to make good progress through Parliament. The Bill

completed its Committee stages in the House of Lords in late July, and should complete all its stages by the beginning of next year at the latest. Again there was general support from all sides for electricity market reform, although Tim Yeo’s amendment designed to force the Secretary of State to set a decarbonisation target in April next year rather than in 2016 as agreed by the Coalition was resuscitated at Report stage, and subsequently defeated. The NIA did not support the amendment; whilst we agree that an early target might have been helpful in building investor confidence in low carbon projects the priority is to get the Bill enacted as soon as possible. Of course a further highlight of this quarter has been the party political conferences. The NIA was represented at all three, and the feedback was gener-ally positive. Given the recession there was particular focus on the social and economic benefits – both of the existing industry and new build. Most visitors to our stand were very struck by the nuclear jobs map that shows where individual companies are located geographically. Given that we now have a nuclear supply chain employing well over 60,000 skilled professionals this should come as no surprise. Again this support was across the political parties. At the Liberal Democrat Conference the party members voted to support the building of a new generation of nuclear power plants - reversing the party’s traditional opposition to nuclear energy. Party members at the Glasgow conference voted 230 to 183 to support nuclear power in "limited" circumstances, with Climate Change Secretary Edward

Davey warning the Party not backing nuclear would be "reckless".This is particularly significant. The LibDems came into Government from a nuclear-sceptical position, although to be fair, successive LibDem Secretaries for Energy (Huhne and Davey) quickly became convinced of the case once exposed to the arguments. However the conference vote means this is now also the position of the party as a whole. There is now a true cross party consensus that will be very impor-tant in attracting investment into future nuclear projects. Nuclear apart the other major news from the Party conferences – and you would have had to be on another planet to have missed it - was Ed Milliband’s speech about energy prices, including proposals for reforming the energy market and a 20 month price freeze. Without getting into the issues – that are far more complicated than some of the media’s ‘Heat or Eat’ headlines suggest– there is no doubt this was a political masterstroke, striking a clear cord with the electorate. There will now be intense political debate in the months ahead as the parties jockey for position, with unpredictable conse-quences. There should be plenty for me to write about in my next column.

34 — WINTER | 2013

industry link - december 2013

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