GE has been awarded a contract by Dominion to secure critical, “long-lead” components for a possible next-generation nuclear power unit.

Dominion is considering constructing a third nuclear-powered electric generating unit at its North Anna Power Station in Mineral, Virginia and the order includes large forgings as well as fabrication of several schedule-critical nuclear and turbine components for the BWR design.

With a growing number of utilities preparing construction and operating licence (COL) applications to build new nuclear units the order ensures crucial project components will be in place should it decide to build the new unit. Mark F. McGettrick, president and chief executive officer of Dominion Generation, commented: “With this contract we have reserved large, critical components at a time when others are also considering building new units. We believe the market for these components will be tight in the near future, so getting to the head of the line makes good sense.”

Dominion and several other utilities are expected to submit COL applications to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) before the end of 2007.