At Millbank, we’ve long followed the progress of major UK infrastructure projects, and the recent news from Hunterston B resonates strongly with us, not just because of its engineering achievement, but because of what it means for the future of nuclear energy, engineering jobs, and the full lifecycle of critical power infrastructure.
When EDF confirmed that Hunterston B is now officially fuel-free—the first Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor (AGR) in the world to achieve this milestone—it wasn’t just a moment of operational success. It marked a significant step in the nuclear power lifecycle: a transition from power generation to safe defueling and ultimately to decommissioning.
Defueling is far more than a technical process, it’s a coordinated effort involving logistics, safety, regulatory compliance, and, above all, people. At Millbank, we recognise and appreciate the depth of preparation and collaboration that underpinned this milestone. The fact that EDF achieved this within budget and ahead of its original three-year schedule is testament to the culture of forward planning and agility that defines the UK’s nuclear workforce.
As specialists in engineering and technical recruitment, Millbank has supported numerous organisations across the nuclear lifecycle, from new build to life extension, defueling, and decommissioning. Projects like Hunterston B offer significant opportunities for skilled professionals at every stage - from nuclear engineers and safety case authors to project managers, control & instrumentation specialists, and decommissioning planners. The shift towards decommissioning in the coming years will open further avenues for talent across disciplines such as radiological protection, waste management, and civil engineering.
What’s especially promising is the way EDF and its partners have communicated continuity, ensuring that teams at Hunterston B understand their roles not just in the present, but in the future. As the site licence transfers to Nuclear Restoration Services in 2026, and physical deconstruction continues into the 2040s and beyond, the need for experienced, adaptable professionals will only grow. This long-view approach is something Millbank fully supports and finds energising within the UK’s energy transition narrative.
Hunterston B has already made a historic contribution, powering millions of homes, contributing over £13 billion to the economy, and now becoming a benchmark for safe and efficient defueling. As a recruitment partner deeply engaged in the energy and infrastructure sectors, Millbank is excited by the opportunities and responsibilities presented by this next phase. Whether it’s contributing to UK energy security, supporting nuclear sustainability, or advancing decommissioning best practices, we’re committed to helping our clients and candidates navigate—and lead—these transitions.
Source: EDF Energy LinkedIn Article "The first Advanced Gas Reactor in the world to become fuel-free" written by Julia Nutley
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/first-advanced-gas-reactor-world-become-fuel-free-edf-energy-audte/?trackingId=QQ%2FWKZ5lvclMc79qCqnySA%3D%3D
