Will France build a third generation EPR nuclear reactor in 2022?

The construction site for the third-generation EPR nuclear reactor at Flamanville (northwestern France), June 14, 2022. SARAH MEYSSONNIER / REUTERS This year is the year. At least according to France's national energy company EDF, the sole operator of France's nuclear power plant fleet, who has been betting heavily on 2024.

Does France still have a nuclear power plant?

Although still far from its best standards, French nuclear production has recovered, rising from 279 terawatt-hours in 2022 to 320 terawatt-hours. On Friday, February 16, the company unveiled a net profit of 10 billion euros and cut its massive debt by increasing nuclear production.

Will France's 'Flamanville EPR' go into service 12 years behind schedule?

The now famous EPR ("European Pressurized Reactor") is eventually due to go into service 12 years behind schedule. Like others before him, France's new Prime Minister, Gabriel Attal, is optimistic. "This year, the Flamanville EPR will be operational," he said in his government policy statement to the Assemblée Nationale, on January 30.

How much does the Flamanville EPR cost?

From one delay to the next, construction costs for the Flamanville EPR have quadrupled since the first layer of concrete was laid over 16 years ago, in December 2007. EDF has recently updated its expectations to €13.2 billion. However, according to a report by the Court of Auditors in 2020, the bill will at least reach more than €19 billion.