The South West’s nuclear sector has started the year with a landmark achievement: the Office for Nuclear Regulation has officially confirmed that Hinkley Point B is now fuel free. This marks the successful completion of the site’s defueling programme, delivered safely, on schedule, and on budget.
Over the past three years, teams across EDF, Nuclear Transport Solutions, Sellafield Ltd and the Office for Nuclear Regulation have worked with precision to remove more than 4,900 spent fuel elements, package them into specially engineered transport flasks, and safely move them by rail for long‑term storage. It’s the second AGR station to reach fuel‑free verification this year, with seven stations in total due to transfer from EDF to Nuclear Restoration Services for decommissioning.
For the South West, this milestone reinforces the region’s reputation for world‑class nuclear delivery. It also signals the beginning of a significant new chapter, as Hinkley Point B prepares to join the UK’s growing decommissioning programme, bringing long‑term opportunities for skills, innovation, and regional economic impact.
Nuclear South West looks forward to welcoming the dedicated Hinkley Point B team into the next phase of the region’s nuclear story.