EPZ, the largest electricity producer in Zeeland, operates the Borssele nuclear power plant. In 2004, a decision was made to extend the plant’s operational lifetime until 2034, which included the partial replacement of control and safety systems. A thorough approach was essential for this process.

User requirements were defined in collaboration with users and experts. A specialized supplier from Germany also provided support. The level of system obsolescence was assessed through several sessions involving users, experts, and maintenance personnel. This formed the basis for setting priorities. A rough total cost estimate was created based on the user requirements.

As the project would place a significant burden on internal staff, an engineering firm was selected through a European tender procedure.

The established priorities led to a management decision to replace the first systems, for which a project plan was developed. The basic design for this portion was tendered to the specialized supplier and commissioned. This basic design enabled a reasonably accurate estimate of project costs, allowing the execution of the first projects to be initiated.