OREANDA-NEWS. Hundreds of representatives from businesses across the UK, North Wales and Anglesey gathered today at Venue Cymru in Llandudno to learn more about the supply chain opportunities that will be unlocked by the Wylfa Newydd project.

The project, which is being developed on the Isle of Anglesey by Horizon Nuclear Power, supported by Hitachi-GE, will create significant opportunities for businesses across the UK, Wales and locally, both during the construction phase and through its many decades of operation.

Tim Eaton, Horizon's Commercial Director, said: "The huge attendance at this event shows the excitement that Wylfa Newydd is generating among companies from across the region and the UK. We've made fantastic progress on the project and we've set out today how businesses can help us continue to move forward successfully. This kind of opportunity only comes along once in a generation and we want businesses to be ready to make the most of it."

The event was attended by more than 350 delegates, representing approximately 250 companies. Representatives of Horizon and Hitachi-GE explained to delegates their approach to procurement, including introductions to future scopes of work and their expectations in relation to quality, codes and standards. They were joined on stage by speakers from UK and Welsh Government as well as the Isle of Anglesey County Council, discussing the support available for businesses.

The event also incorporated exhibition stands from skills agencies, industry organisations and education establishments, who are able to equip businesses with the knowledge and qualifications they will need to work on the Project.

Shunsuke Utena, Executive Officer of Hitachi Europe's Nuclear Power Projects Unit, said: "Wylfa Newydd represents an unparalleled opportunity for Welsh and British businesses. As we develop our supply chain to deliver a scope of work for Horizon, we're always looking for the right quality and the right behaviours. Alongside Horizon, today's event has given us the opportunity to explain more about our approach and expectations as we continue building our relationships with the UK supply chain. Our priority is to help Welsh and British firms understand where opportunities could exist and how they can prepare to take advantage of them in the years to come."