British Energy continues preparation of potential sites for replacement nuclear sites

British Energy has commissioned a range of geological, environmental impact, marine, transmission system and other studies for its sites. In line with previous announcements, the Group will continue to invest prudently to maintain its sites as strong candidates for replacement build. This work will also ensure that development can proceed as quickly and efficiently as possible if the Government makes a positive decision. (All reports here)

Grid Connections

At this stage grid access is likely to be an important constraining factor in siting. The ability to connect replacement nuclear stations to the grid will be a relevant factor for nuclear and indeed any generation type. The Company has entered into transmission connection agreements with National Grid for each of the key sites it owns in the South of England – at Sizewell, Hinkley, Dungeness and Bradwell - for grid access in the period from 2016 onwards.

Through these agreements British Energy has contracted the capacity needed for potential future nuclear development at these sites, subject to National Grid obtaining any necessary planning and other consents. We remain flexible at this stage about exactly how and when the sites might be developed and on issues like the choice of reactor design.

BBC 4 had an excellen program today Energising the West incorporating a visit to Hinckley Power station and a discussion of the issues of building new nuclear power - spoilt by the NE twat (and there are by all account from the news daily, plenty of them) Professor Fell of the Bow Tie brigade and airy generalisms and shifting ideologies and open academic hands.

Further details and listen again here. (1 week only)

BBC Online report here.