France has successfully connected its most powerful nuclear power reactor, Flamanville 3, to the national electricity grid after years of delays and technical setbacks. The European Pressurized Reactor (EPR), a new generation pressurized water reactor, started providing electricity to French homes at 11:48 am on Saturday.
The EPR is the fourth of its kind in the world and offers more efficient power output and better safety compared to previous designs. France’s nuclear energy accounts for around three-fifths of the country’s energy output, making it one of the largest nuclear power programs globally.
President Emmanuel Macron hailed the event as a “landmark moment” and “historic,” calling it “one of the world’s most powerful reactors.” The EPR is expected to supply electricity to up to two million homes, marking a significant milestone for France’s energy sustainability efforts.
However, the start-up has been marred by technical setbacks and massive budget overruns. Construction took 17 years, costing an estimated €13.2 billion, four times the initial estimate of €3.3 billion. A months-long testing phase is expected to follow, with the plant shut down for at least 250 days in 2026.
France aims to ramp up nuclear power production to bolster its energy sustainability. Macron has ordered six EPR2 reactors and laid options for eight more, which could cost tens of billions of euros. The move aims to transition away from fossil fuels and strengthen the country’s competitiveness while protecting the climate.
Source: https://www.lemonde.fr/en/france/article/2024/12/21/france-s-most-powerful-nuclear-reactor-connected-to-grid-after-17-year-build_6736344_7.html