Written question asked by Lord Stoddart of Swindon (Independent Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Sainsbury of Turville (Labour) on Monday, 23 October 2006.

Energy: Dounreay Fast Breeder Reactor

Question: What was the total cost of building and operating the fast breeder reactor at Dounreay during its operational life; how long will it take to decommission the plant; and at what total cost.

Answer: The prototype fast reactor was estimated upon completion in 1974 to have cost approximately £40 million. Annual operating costs for the fast reactor programme averaged £50 million per year. The PFR closed in 1994 (these costs are quoted in cash of the year). The most recent estimate published in the site lifetime plan for the cost of decommissioning the PFR is in the region of £300 million. Decommissioning is due to be complete by 2033.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 685 c208WA; 7705
Session: 2005-06
Subjects: Decommissioning Costs Construction Nuclear power stations Dounreay Fast reactors Operating costs
Contains statistics: Yes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk