Beznau nuclear power plant: Start of refueling in Unit 2

4.8.2020 - Unit 2 of the Beznau nuclear power plant (KKB) was taken off grid today, Tuesday, as planned in order to carry out refuelling. After reactor reloading, the plant will be ready for the next operating cycle.

The shutdown of Unit 2 marks the end of the production cycle that began on 20 September 2019. Since then, KKB 2 reliably produced about 2.9 billion kilowatt hours of electricity without interruption. This correspondsto the annual power consumption of about 600,000 households in Switzerland.

During the shutdown that will last about two weeks, 20 of the 121 fuel elements will be replaced and installedin the reactor core. In addition, recurring inspection work and integral system tests will be performed.

During the shutdown, steam from the non-nuclear section will be visible above the powerhouse. This does not pose any danger to human beings or the environment.

During refuelling, the approx. 460 KKB employees will be supported by some 120 external experts.

The measures instituted in spring to prevent the spread of the corona-virus and to protect internal and external staff will continue to be closely observed.

Refuelling work is supervised by the Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate ENSI.

 

Additional information

Axpo Holding AG, Corporate Communications 

T 0800 44 11 00 (Switzerland) | T +41 56 200 41 10 (international), medien@axpo.com

Axpo Holding AG

Corporate Communications

medien@axpo.com

T 0800 44 11 00 (Schweiz) 
T +41 56 200 41 10 (International)

(08.00 - 17.30)

More media releases

Show all

Company 28.03.2024

Strengthening security of supply: Axpo is giving a clear Yes to the new electricity law, assessing the potential of operating Beznau for longer, and is prepared to construct a reserve power plant

Switzerland needs more electricity to achieve its climate goals. In order for the expansion of renewable energies to become a reality, we need a clear Yes to the draft of the new electricity law on 9 June. To further strengthen security of supply, Axpo has decided to clarify the technical feasibility of operating the Beznau nuclear power plant beyond 60 years. Axpo has also responded to the federal government’s tender (which ends today) and submitted a project for a reserve power plant for emergencies.

Read more

Solar energy 13.03.2024

Axpo discontinues planned alpine solar project in Glarus Süd

Following extensive investigations, Axpo has decided to discontinue its planned solar project in Glarus Süd. The reasons behind this decision are natural hazards, limited environmental compatibility and low energy yield. Axpo and the municipality of Glarus Süd regret this decision. Axpo will continue to invest in sustainable forms of energy and drive its Alpine projects forward.

Read more

International business 08.03.2024

Axpo and Jabil extend energy partnership in Hungary

Axpo and Jabil, a leading global electronics manufacturer headquartered in the United States, have renewed their long-term partnership in Hungary with a renewable energy corporate power purchase agreement (cPPA), it was announced today. The seven-year deal covers Jabil’s entire energy consumption in Hungary at two locations, marking an important advance towards the company’s environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) goals.

Read more