EDF Energy will today outline the billions of pounds of opportunities on its UK nuclear new build programme as more than 350 companies gather for its third National Supply Chain event.

At the event EDF Energy will announce a package of new contracts including the selection of Kier and BAM as preferred bidder for a £100million–plus contract for site preparation works at Hinkley Point C.

The contract will create an estimated 350 UK jobs from next year with many workers under this contract living locally to Hinkley Point. The work, which is subject to clearance of planning conditions, includes excavation, earthworks, terracing, installation of construction site infrastructure and formation of roads and networks to allow main construction to begin.

The preparatory works will be followed by the main construction works which will see over 20,000 people work on site over the course of the project.


A second announcement today as part of EDF Energy's plans, with Centrica, to build a new twin-reactor nuclear power station at Hinkley Point C in Somerset is an agreement with AREVA in relation to the early design work for the main reactor systems. This will allow AREVA to begin the work in January.

The agreement comes as AREVA is starting to produce the heavy forgings required for critical reactor components, following a contract signed between the companies in July.

Thirdly, EDF Energy will today announce a £15 million investment to establish a world class national training centre in partnership with Bridgwater College in Somerset.

Building on existing work with the college, this facility will address potential skills shortages in the energy sector by delivering professional training and providing a legacy of growth in the local community.

As well as developing the skills of EDF Energy employees, this is a key initiative to help fill gaps in the energy sector skills base, including for new technologies.

Speaking at the event in London EDF Energy Chief Executive Vincent de Rivaz will say: "This is part of the growth agenda. The contracts we are announcing today will secure over 500 jobs and provide an immediate economic boost. This is just the beginning. Our project will inject billions of pounds into the economy, revitalise entire sectors of industry and support tens of thousands of jobs.

"Furthermore, our £15-million national training centre in Somerset will help a new generation of young people develop the skills they need for a bright future and a long term career."

(CD)