Discover the Innovative Concrete Recycling Plan Transforming Sizewell A to C
Innovative recycling methods are being implemented at the Sizewell A nuclear power plant to support the construction of Sizewell C. Over 15,000 tonnes of crushed concrete from the recently demolished turbine hall will be repurposed for this new energy project.
Demolition Highlights at Sizewell A
The demolition of Sizewell A’s turbine hall was completed in June 2023 by the Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS). Using forward-thinking techniques, this complex project was completed significantly faster than traditional methods.
- 17,000 tonnes of concrete and rubble were removed from the site.
- 700 kg of explosives were utilized to weaken four concrete plinths.
- Around 35 miles of electrical cable were also extracted.
Recycling Efforts Contribute to Sustainable Practices
Under a circular economy agreement, over 15,000 tonnes of crushed concrete will be reutilized in construction activities at Sizewell C. Since September, NRS has been involved in crushing and testing the concrete to meet WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme) Quality Protocol standards.
Once certified, this recycled material has been transported to Sizewell C’s construction area to be used as aggregate in foundation platforms.
Environmental Benefits and Community Impact
This collaborative project is expected to significantly reduce costs and carbon emissions. By reusing materials, the need for newly mined aggregates has been minimized, limiting truck traffic through East Suffolk.
Damian Leydon, Site Delivery Director for Sizewell C, emphasized the positive impact of these efforts: “This is great news all around.”
Reducing Carbon Footprint
Wendy Heath, Senior Project Manager at NRS, noted that this innovative recycling approach has resulted in the diversion of waste from landfills, preventing 28 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. This project showcases how sustainable decommissioning and local collaboration can lead to significant environmental benefits.
Sizewell A’s Operational History
Sizewell A housed two 210 MWe Magnox gas-cooled reactors from 1966 until 2006. Following the removal of fuel began in 2009, the plant was declared completely fuel-free in February 2015, marking a milestone in decommissioning. With 99% of the radioactive hazard removed, the site is expected to be entirely cleared by 2077.
Future of Sizewell C
Sizewell C will feature two EPR reactors designed to produce 3.2 GW of electricity. This output is sufficient to power around six million homes for over 60 years. Following a crucial investment decision in July 2023, construction aims to be completed more efficiently and at a lower cost, taking lessons from the Hinkley Point C project.
