A Reactor Now Operational
You might wonder why we often discuss electricity costs, power plants, nuclear energy, and energy policies. There are numerous reasons for this. First, every product we mention in our articles operates on electricity (surprise!), and every time we test a computer or analyze a new chip launched by Intel, AMD, or Apple, its energy consumption is a key topic. We also frequently talk about batteries, solar panels, and of course, electric vehicles. So yes, when France finally connects its largest power station to the grid, it catches our interest.
The project started back in 2007. The EPR (European Pressurized Reactor) at Flamanville is an ambitious endeavor that has faced many technical and financial setbacks. Designed to produce up to 1,600 MW, it is the most powerful reactor in the French nuclear fleet. One of its goals is to reduce radioactive waste by 15 to 30% through more complete fission of uranium, but it has accumulated a 12-year delay and seen its costs skyrocket from 3.3 billion to 19 billion euros, according to the Court of Auditors. The math just doesn’t add up.
This delayed launch marks the first connection of a reactor in France in 25 years. And so, it’s the latest news, its operation is starting gradually, with tests and a ramp-up phase extending until the summer of 2025.
What’s the Impact for Us?
In the short term, unfortunately, we should not expect to see a change in our bills. The prices of electricity depend mainly on European markets, demand, and overall production. However, the EPR does enhance France’s energy security, especially to avoid situations like in 2022, when power plant failures forced the country to import electricity for the first time in 42 years.
The addition of this reactor could also potentially make France a net exporter of electricity in the long run, thanks to its increased capacity. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves, this “surplus capacity” is still subject to economic uncertainties and does not guarantee a stabilization of rates for individuals. Far from it.
A Key Lever for Energy Transition
The Flamanville EPR is still part of a strategy aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. In addition to renewable energies, nuclear power remains a crucial source for producing low-carbon electricity, even though some political parties and associations continue to believe that nuclear power entails significant risks and would prefer the country to invest in solar and wind energy, as is the case in Germany, which has shut down its plants (which does pose some problems).
In 2022, Emmanuel Macron relaunched this sector with the announcement of the construction of six new EPR2 reactors, particularly at the Penly and Gravelines sites. However, problems are just around the corner, as delays and cost overruns raise questions about the feasibility of these projects. EDF, a heavily indebted public company, has cut the investments planned for the preparations of these projects, so it’s off to a rocky start.
A Success Nonetheless?
Despite everything, the EPR symbolizes an ambitious revival of the French nuclear industry, as well as a risky bet. Its enormous costs, numerous delays, and uncertainties about its profitability raise questions, and experts are struggling to decide on the long-term viability of this model.
Beyond economic debates, the commissioning of the EPR still underscores the need for rigorous planning to avoid past mistakes. If this reactor manages to meet the country’s energy needs, helping us avoid importing electricity, it will nevertheless be a win.