Most of the construction activities for a NPP such as excavation, civil con­struction, laying of piping, cables and instrument tubing, installation of electrical, air conditioning and ventilation equipment, erection of equip­ment like pumps, compressors, valves, diesel generators, transformers, switchgear and the turbine generator and its associated equipment are similar to those performed in conventional industries. It should therefore be possible to identify local agencies to carry out these jobs. However, it needs to be noted that the nuclear industry is characterized by stringent quality standards and hence the contracting agencies selected should be capable of performing construction work that meets these standards. The bidding companies should be prequalified and shortlisted based on their work experience, quality of work performed earlier, availability of qualified staff in requisite numbers, and capability to mobilize the required construc­tion machinery and manpower to complete the work according to the schedule. The successful bidders may then be selected from the organiza­tions so shortlisted. There is the modern practice of awarding mega­contracts comprising several packages to a single construction contractor.

This is towards completing the construction work in the minimum possible time and to minimize paperwork. It would be ideal if agencies for awarding mega-contracts can be identified in the local market. If this is not possible, participation of local sub-contractors under the mega-contract should be ensured to the maximum extent possible. This will not only reduce the cost of construction but also groom the local contractors to take up future NPP construction work in the country. While national participation in construc­tion to the maximum extent possible is highly desirable, there are certain specialized jobs such as the erection of the reactor vessel, primary coolant system piping and reactor control and protection system components that may have to be necessarily performed by experienced vendor personnel. Participation of utility personnel and local contractors in such jobs should be encouraged to the extent possible such that they can utilize this experi­ence subsequently in commissioning and O&M of the NPP and in similar construction activities of future NPPs.