France: EDF to shut down up to 14 reactors by 2035, each after 50 years of operation

In its new energy strategy update, France plans to shut down a further 14 reactors by 2035, in addition to two reactors in 2020, in order to meet its target of reducing nuclear generation to 50%. The first two reactors will be shut down this year at the Fessenheim nuclear power plant.

The plan to shut down nuclear power plants in France is taking more concrete shape. The latest version of the energy strategy already names seven nuclear power plants where two units each are to be shut down. The list includes the Blayais, Bugey, Chinon, Cruas, Dampierre, Gravelines and Tricastin plants.

At the same time, the plan does not envisage any of the plants being closed entirely. Some units will remain in operation at each of the selected plants. The state is thus very likely seeking to address the significant loss of jobs, as a nuclear power plant supports a range of employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly through supplier companies.

By closing the units mentioned, France will move closer to its target of generating only 50% of the country’s electricity from nuclear power. At present, the figure is slightly above 70%.

However, it should be added that although France has decided to close some reactors, this does not constitute an early end to their operation. The plants will generally be closed after 50 years of operation. The usual planned lifetime of nuclear power plants is around 40 years, although pressure for longer-term operation has increased in recent years. Operating licences for up to 50 years are not uncommon, while the United States is targeting up to 60 years.

France is not planning to move away from nuclear power or halt its further development. Although France announced at the beginning of this year that it would decide on further nuclear plant construction only after the commissioning of the third unit at Flamanville, up to six new EPR-type reactors are planned.