Nuclear power in Europe

British Energy has said that it would extend the lives of Hinkley Point B and Hunterston B nuclear power stations by five years to 2016.

The two sites, which are currently running at around 60% capacity due to boiler issues, began generating power in 1976.

Further studies will be conducted by 2013 regarding the potential for additional life extensions beyond 2016, the company added. (more…)

Shares in British Energy closed down 8% after problems uncovered by a routine inspection forced it to take four nuclear reactors out of service.
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