EDF takes steps to build two EPR2 nuclear reactors in France

EDF has begun the permitting process for the construction of two new EPR2 nuclear reactors at the Penly power plant. The company’s management made the decision partly on the basis of a public debate, with the aim of contributing to France’s decarbonisation. Preparatory work at the site could begin in the middle of next year. The company expects the first reactor to be commissioned in 2035.

French energy company EDF announced that it had launched the necessary approval and administrative processes to begin construction of two new nuclear reactors. The company plans to build two EPR2 units with an installed capacity of 1670 MW at the Penly power plant in Normandy.

"After analysing the results of the public debate held under the auspices of the National Commission for Public Debate, EDF’s board decided yesterday to proceed with the planned construction of the first pair of EPR2 reactors at Penly," EDF said in a press release.