EDF announced Thursday that it had handed over to the government its file on the possible construction of new nuclear EPR reactors in France.
“
We would like a decision to be made on the construction of new EPRs in France.
As such, the file that the government has requested on the feasibility and the conditions of such a program has just been sent to it
”, indicated the CEO of EDF, Jean-Bernard Lévy, during the general meeting of shareholders.
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France is considering renewing its nuclear fleet with six new generation EPR reactors but has not yet taken a decision.
This was postponed until after the start of the Flamanville (Manche) EPR, scheduled for the end of 2022 after numerous delays, and will therefore concern the next five-year term.
In this context, EDF was expected to submit a complete file to the government in mid-2021.
A "working document"
The entourage of the Minister of Ecological Transition Barbara Pompili confirmed Thursday having received the document "
a few days ago
".
“
It is a working document that corresponds to EDF's vision.
He does not commit the government,
”added the same source.
In addition, EDF is developing with other partners a small modular reactor project (or SMR for "
small modular reactor
" in English).
Called "
Nuward
", it will be intended for export by 2030.
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"
To give this product all its chances in its target markets outside France, we suggest that the next PPE provide for the construction of a first SMR in France,
" said Mr. Lévy. He was referring to the multiannual energy program (PPE), France's energy roadmap, the current version of which goes until 2028.