Heysham 1 and Hartlepool nuclear stations stay closed

The Heysham 1 and Hartlepool nuclear power stations, which were shut down in August following the discovery of a crack on a component known as a boiler spine at Heysham 1, may not re-open until the end of the year.

 

On 11 August, operator EDF Energy reported that the four nuclear reactors at Heysham 1 and Hartlepool would be shut down to allow a programme of boiler inspections to take place. Hartlepool power station was also shut down because both stations share the same design with each of its 16 boilers supported by this boiler spine component. Other advanced gas-cooled reactors (AGRs) in the UK have a different boiler design without a boiler spine, added EDF.

 

Boiler inspections, which have involved working with suppliers to put the necessary equipment and people in place to undertake the complex and programme, are underway. In the first two inspections, no defects were found on these spines.

 

However, EDF Energy says that to bring these reactors back into service, the programme must:

·      complete inspections to verify there are no further defects which could develop into cracks;

·      understand in detail the cause of the crack found on the boiler spine at Heysham 1;

·      develop designs and techniques for modifications to mitigate the impact of any defects; and

·      then implement modifications, if necessary.

 

During the coming weeks the programme team will focus on completing the inspections and work to build a robust case for the safe continuing operation of the boilers. This ‘safety case’ is subject to approval from the independent nuclear regulator, the Office for Nuclear Regulation.

 

Depending on the progress of the programme and any necessary modifications, EDF Energy expects a phased return to service between the end of this month and the end of December.