The EPR nuclear power plant located in Flamanville, France, is undergoing commissioning processes and is scheduled to be linked to the electrical grid in the autumn season.
By now, the Flamanville-based European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) is projected to hit around a quarter of its maximum power output. Several more months are required for it to reach full capacity, with EDF refraining from providing a precise timeline.
Construction on this EPR began in 2007, originally planned to commence operations in 2012. However, EDF's most recent prediction indicates a total expense of 13.2 billion euros, approximately four times the initial projected cost. France's Court of Auditors suggested a more substantial 19 billion euros as the actual cost in 2020.
France's nuclear safety authority has obligated EDF to replace the reactor's lid by 2026, following the discovery of cracks within the steel structure.
The Flamanville-based EPR, capable of producing 1600 megawatts, will become France's most potent nuclear reactor. Globally, there are currently three operational EPR reactors, with one in Finland and two in China. France boasts a total of 56 nuclear reactors and aims to construct an additional 14, using a simplified EPR model.
EDF has recently adjusted its projection for nuclear power production this year, now estimating 340 to 360 terawatt-hours for 2024. Previously, their forecast anticipated 315 to 345 terawatt-hours. As per Régis Clément, Vice President of EDF's nuclear division, "The performance of those other 56 reactors has surpassed our expectations."
The construction of the additional 14 simplified EPR reactors, planned by France, is expected to take place in various locations, potentially including Flamanville. Despite the challenges and cost escalations faced with the Flamanville EPR, France remains committed to expanding its nuclear energy capacity.
