HOCHTIEF successful on major long-term UK nuclear framework contract

HOCHTIEF has been identified by Sellafield Ltd for delivery as part of a major long-term framework supporting the operation, maintenance and development of Sellafield, the UK’s largest and most complex nuclear site.

The appointment further strengthens HOCHTIEF’s position in the nuclear sector and expands the Group’s presence in a strategic growth market where specialized engineering, operational excellence and long-term asset stewardship are critical. It also builds on the company’s established role at Sellafield through its participation in the site’s Infrastructure Delivery Partnership. HOCHTIEF Infrastructure will support Lot 2 of Sellafield’s new Project and Asset Care Execution (PACE) framework. Lot 2 will work to support the batch specialist and decommissioning nuclear facilities in Special Nuclear Materials. The lot has an estimated value of up to GBP 1.5 billion (EUR 1.75 billion) and will run for up to 15 years, comprising an initial nine-year term with the option to extend for afurther six years.

PACE succeeds Sellafield’s Integrated Asset Care framework and Design Service Alliance to support the maintenance, modification and development of operational nuclear facilities across the site. As part of the framework, HOCHTIEF will deliver a broad range of services including design, procurement, installation, commissioning, asset care, project management and project controls. Much of the work will be undertaken in operational and radiologically controlled environments, requiring the highest standards of safety, technical capability and project delivery expertise.

HOCHTIEF Chief Executive Officer Juan Santamaría said:

“This is a significant endorsement of HOCHTIEF’s nuclear capabilities, engineering expertise and proven ability to deliver complex projects in highly regulated environments.

“Nuclear infrastructure is an important long-term growth market. As countries focus on energy security, sustainability and the safe management of existing nuclear assets, demand is increasing for partners that can deliver specialist engineering solutions across the full nuclear lifecycle.”

HOCHTIEF Infrastructure CEO Peter Hingott said:

“Our appointment to the PACE framework builds on the successful work we have delivered at Sellafield through the Infrastructure Delivery Partnership and reflects the trust our customers place in our people. We look forward to working closely with Sellafield over the long term, supporting the site’s critical mission and creating lasting value for local communities, supply chain partners and the wider UK economy.”

Matthew Johns, Chief Engineer, Sellafield Ltd commented:

“Our mission is to create a clean, safe and secure environment for future generations. To do this we must ensure our assets remain safe, reliable and fit for the future. The PACE agreement is an important step to strengthen our asset care capability. It will provide the expertise we need to maintain a high standard of safe and efficient delivery. We look forward to working collaboratively with our partners. We will build a framework that delivers safe, effective and sustainable outcomes. These will benefit Sellafield and the wider community.”

The success highlights HOCHTIEF’s successful strategy of expanding in attractive growth markets that benefit from the Group’s engineering expertise, integrated delivery model and long-term customer relationships. Nuclear is a key market for HOCHTIEF, alongside digital infrastructure, energy and critical minerals.

HOCHTIEF has more than 70 years of experience across the nuclear lifecycle, including the design, construction, modernization, operation and decommissioning of nuclear facilities. The Group has delivered complex nuclear projects across Europe and internationally and continues to apply its expertise in engineering, major project delivery, modular construction, digital solutions and asset management to support the sector’s evolving needs.

The long-term nature of the PACE framework will also support skilled employment, local businesses and supply chain opportunities across West Cumbria while helping to develop future nuclear capabilities and expertise. Through long-term investment in the regional supply chain and workforce, the framework is expected to deliver lasting economic benefits to the local community of Cumbria while supporting the UK’s nuclear program.