KKB: fit for long-term operation

16.11.2021 - In its statement published today on the Periodic Safety Review (PSR 2017) of the Beznau nuclear power plant (KKB), the Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI) concludes that the plant has been operated with due care and on a good level in terms of safety. Axpo is delighted with this assessment. Thanks to professional operation, meticulous maintenance and continuous upgrades, KKB is in good condition and fulfils the requirements for long-term operation. Its already high safety standards are nevertheless being enhanced even further.

KKB demonstrated safe operating behaviour over the review period. The comprehensive inspection of the organisation, management system, technical and technological ageing processes of all safety-relevant components as well as results of comprehensive safety analyses establishes that the safety of the plant is ensured, both for the review period and for the future.

All principles of nuclear safety are implemented and fulfilled at KKB. The plant’s safety concept meets the legal and regulatory requirements in Switzerland as well as the internationally recognised norms of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

With the proof of safety for long-term operation, KKB has demonstrated that in view of their technical and safety condition, both blocks fulfil the requirements for continued operation. ‘We’re delighted by this positive assessment and see it as a validation of our work,’ says power plant director Roland Schmidiger. ‘We will comply with the additional requirements formulated by ENSI in its statement on PSR 2017 and thus enhance our existing safety levels even further.’