EDF Energy has announced a 10-year life extension for the U.K.’s Dungeness B nuclear plant. Dungeness B's two 545 MWe advanced gas-cooled reactor (AGR) started up in 1983 and 1985 respectively, according to World Nuclear News.

This means that the AGR nuclear reactors will continue generating electricity until 2028. The extension comes after a $228-million investment at the plant, which included a $114-million upgrade to control room computer systems and $12 million to safeguard against flooding.

The plant's license extension is part of EDF Energy’s strategy to keep its UK nuclear fleet operation until at least 2023, when its new nuclear plant at Hinkley Point C is planned to be commissioned.

Currently, about $911 million a year is being invested into the eight power plants operated by EDF in the UK. The company said, Keeping Dungeness B open and investing in the facility will give investors confidence despite highly challenging conditions.”

EDF also announced new nuclear partnerships with Amec Foster Wheeler, Cavendish Nuclear, Atkins and Doosan Babcock to support EDF’s nuclear stations and its UK fleet.

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