UK-based engineering and design consultancy firm Atkins has announced that it has formed a Strategic Supply Chain Partnership with EDF Energy to support its Nuclear Generation business.
Under the new partnership, Atkins will provide additional engineering support to EDF Energy in a bid to extend the life of its existing nuclear AGR fleet.
EDF Energy recently announced the plans to extend the life of its reactors by an average of seven years, with one of the advantages being to help bridge the forecasted energy gap until new nuclear comes on line.
Atkins’ nuclear business managing director Chris Ball said the firm has worked closely with EDF Energy supporting their operating fleet for over 30 years and the new partnership is a natural extension of that relationship.
“Our primary focus as a member of the Strategic Partnership will be to support EDF Energy on their aspirations of Zero Harm, maximising output and lifetime extension,” Ball added.
“Atkins will be bringing its technical and programme delivery experience to the full portfolio of work being invested in by EDF Energy in their existing fleet. In addition to this we will add our consultancy experience in developing and delivering complex supply chain solutions.”
Atkins said it will also continue to provide similar services across EDF Energy’s nuclear new build programmes at both Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C.