Water usage optimisation at Hinkley Point B nuclear power station

Abstract

EDF Energy is committed to continually striving towards being as efficient and environmentally friendly as possible across its fleet of nuclear power stations. One of the key targets at Hinkley Point B (HPB) power station in Somerset is to reduce water consumption. Even though the station has been operating for 40+ years, modern technologies are continually embraced to improve the station's performance. Examples of technologies not commonly associated with older nuclear power stations are ultra-sonic flow measurements, which allow us to monitor our overall water consumption through the main HPB station inlets whilst also having the flexibility to be used in smaller applications, such as monitoring the health/performance of various plant systems and identifying losses or even leaks. Through specific sub systems detailed analysis, the station looks to continually reduce our environmental impact by reducing water consumption across the site. With the use of ultrasonic flow meters in different applications across the station, coupled with the identification of possible areas for improvement and further implementation, it is hoped to be able to significantly reduce losses for specific plant items.