By Giulia Petroni

Electricite de France SA is to begin shutting down the Hinkley Point B nuclear power station in Somerset, England, by no later than July 15, 2022, earlier than previously scheduled.

Back in 2012, EDF had extended the plant's estimated life until March 2023.

The French energy company said Thursday the station decommissioning process is expected to take several years.

Power generation at the plant has been suspended in June for inspection and maintenance activities, with operations expected to restart following the approval of the U.K. nuclear regulator.

The site started generating electricity in 1976 and has been the most productive nuclear-power station in the country, according to EDF.

Write to Giulia Petroni at giulia.petroni@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

11-20-20 0533ET