JDR trials asset-based decommissioning with Ramco (UK)

Over the next few months, JET Decommissioning and Repurposing (JDR) will be trialling asset-based decommissioning in the next phase of its work programme in three areas of the JET estate. All three areas were part of the extensive infrastructure which channelled electrical power to JET during its plasma operations.

The work supports the wider development of Culham Campus. It will enable the Strategic Investment and Development for Energy & AI (STRIDE) programme to progress land remediation in preparation for a fourth super grid transformer to be installed.

JDR has contracted industry specialist, Ramco (UK), to undertake the work. Ramco’s client base includes the Ministry of Defence, Government Departments, Uniper, National Highways, and Nuclear Restoration Services.

Steve Gilligan, Engineering Integration Manager, JDR, said:

Through delivering prior building decommissioning projects, we recognised that there was a need to explore a different model.

The value of asset-based decommissioning is that it offsets the investment needed to establish a team, do engineering preparation, and then maximises the value of the material.

The JET expertise is around the knowledge of the site, and how we can make it safe. We need to generate the information to allow industry to follow their practices and do the work as quickly and efficiently as they can.

We’ve had a number of site visits, and each one of them has highlighted the level of engagement required to deliver the project.

Teddy Townsend, Business Development Manager, Ramco (UK), said:

This is really exciting because it allows us to do what we do best. We can look at assets that have value, which can be taken to auction, we can do the scrap, and we can do the demolishing.

Ramco’s work has started immediately, with the trial contract being completed in March 2027.