The year 2025 marks an unexpected turning point in the field of nuclear energy. An ambitious project, once a symbol of technological progress, has been abruptly halted, giving way to a most worrying situation: the appearance of radioactive rats.
These rodents, carriers of an unsuspected threat, are causing panic and raising many questions about the environmental and health consequences of such a phenomenon. How did this happen? What are the real risks for the population and the ecosystem? This article explores the origins of this surprising crisis and its implications for the future of nuclear energy.
Rat infestation problem at Hinkley Point C site
The Hinkley Point C site, the UK’s flagship nuclear power project, is facing an unexpected problem: a massive rat infestation. These rodents have invaded work areas, canteens and waste bins, causing concern among the Unite and GMB unions. As early as April, they alerted EDF, the site’s developer, to the need for an urgent disinfection campaign to protect the 10,000 workers on site.
The rats, visible everywhere, pose health risks and could damage temporary infrastructure. EDF has acknowledged the problem, pointing out that it is common in large civil engineering projects, and has taken steps to remedy it.
Reactions and measures taken by EDF and the unions
In response to the trade unions’ alert about the rodent infestation at the Hinkley Point C site, EDF has deployed a series of measures to bring the situation under control. The company worked closely with the unions to ensure a safe working environment. Specialized companies were hired to install baiting stations and seal waste ducts. Hygiene audits of canteens are also underway.
Unions such as Unite monitor the progress of these actions on a weekly basis. Although these measures are promising, their effectiveness will depend on how rigorously they are implemented, and on the ability to integrate pest management into daily site logistics.
Implications for the Hinkley Point C project and the nuclear industry
The rat infestation at Hinkley Point C raises concerns about potential delays and health and safety risks. Although the site does not yet contain radioactive materials, the uncontrolled presence of rodents could compromise food hygiene and damage temporary infrastructure.
This incident is reminiscent of the one at Fukushima in 2013, where a rat caused a power failure. Such events fuel criticism of nuclear power, as the UK aims to boost its nuclear capacity to 24 GW by 2050. Effective management of this crisis is crucial to restoring public confidence and ensuring the success of the Hinkley Point C project.
