Arabelle Solutions has been awarded a contract to supply two complete turbine islands for the construction of the Sizewell C nuclear power plant in Suffolk. The contract, signed in London on September 30, marks a new phase in the collaboration between Arabelle Solutions and Électricité de France (EDF), already partners on the Hinkley Point C project. The financial value of the agreement was not disclosed.
Each turbine island will include Arabelle steam turbines with 75-inch last stage blades, 1.7 GW GIGATOP generators, heat exchangers, pumps, and auxiliary equipment. Each shaftline will be approximately 70 metres long and consist of a high-pressure module, an intermediate-pressure module, three low-pressure modules, and the generator, forming the full energy conversion system.
Strengthening a replicable industrial model
Arabelle Solutions, currently installing turbines at Hinkley Point C, will use the same technical specifications for Sizewell C. This approach aims to reduce engineering time, standardise components, and enable early manufacturing. The strategy allows critical equipment to be stored in advance, helping to manage delivery schedules and mitigate project risks.
Cedric Couffignal, Executive Vice President for New Projects at Arabelle Solutions, stated that the Arabelle turbine was well-suited to the production requirements of Sizewell C. He added that the teams would build on their experience from Hinkley Point C to ensure a high level of technical performance.
A partnership rooted in industrial integration
The cooperation follows EDF’s acquisition in May 2024 of part of GE Vernova’s nuclear conventional island business, including Arabelle technology. The deal covers the manufacturing and maintenance of equipment for nuclear power plants outside the Americas.
Nigel Cann, Joint Managing Director of Sizewell C, said the awarding of this contract was a significant step forward in the plant’s development. He emphasised Arabelle Solutions’ expertise and operational commitment to the UK’s civil nuclear sector. The turbines are expected to eventually supply power to around six million homes.