NuGen names future plant Moorside

Friday, 2 December 2011 NuGeneration - the joint venture between Iberdrola and GdF-Suez - that plans to construct a new nuclear power plant alongside the Sellafield fuel cycle site in Cumbria, UK, has selected the name Moorside as its project name. "The project naming brings clarity and a distinct identity to the nuclear new build development, and provides a focus for stakeholders including the local community, regulators and the wider nuclear industry," the company said. Alfio Vidal, chief nuclear director of NuGen, commented: "It is important that our project has a name and we are delighted with this choice. It gives momentum to developing solid relationships with the community and supply chain." He added, "We think Moorside reflects the unique qualities of west Cumbria and our new project name marks a step forward in our development plans." Site investigations are due to start next year on the land, which NuGen has an option to purchase from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority. NuGen intends to prepare detailed plans for developing the site, which will be submitted for consideration by the relevant planning authorities with the aim of a final investment decision being taken around 2015. The plant could be commissioned around 2023.