France’s Quest to Balance Nuclear and Renewable Energy: The Challenges of Building New Reactors and Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels
Emmanuel Macron’s predecessor, François Hollande, had pledged to reduce the share of nuclear power in electricity production to 50% during his 2012 campaign. However, despite his efforts and two terms in office, he was unable to achieve this goal. After the closure of a power plant in 2020, the current President has shifted direction. Rather than intentionally reducing the share of electricity produced by nuclear plants, which was 64.8% in 2023, the government now plans to build six new reactors known as EPR 2.
These new models will be a simplified version of the existing Flamanville EPR, with the first pair planned for construction in Penly by 2035, followed by pairs in Gravelines and Bugey in the following decade. Despite plans for these new reactors, there are already challenges related to financing. Initial cost estimates for the program were 51.7 billion euros in 2021 but have since been revised upwards to 67.4 billion euros due to various factors such as inflation and material costs.
While financing challenges persist, the President remains determined to pursue his ambitions with plans to launch another program for the construction of eight additional EPR 2 reactors in the long term. However, resolving issues related to waste disposal and dismantling of older power plants will be crucial for the success of this future program. Despite obstacles like high costs and safety concerns, France remains committed to advancing its nuclear energy agenda.
The French government is taking steps towards increasing its reliance on renewable energy sources while still keeping nuclear power at a significant portion of its electricity mix. The latest move is an attempt to build six new reactors known as EPR 2 that will help France maintain its position as a leader in nuclear energy technology while also addressing some concerns about safety and cost.
France has been relying heavily on nuclear power for decades and currently generates over half of its electricity from this source. While it’s clear that reducing dependence on fossil fuels is essential for future generations, it’s not easy just overnight abandoning a system that has served France so well for so long.
As part of his plan to increase reliance on renewable energy sources like wind and solar power while maintaining a strong nuclear component in its mix, Macron has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 45% by 2030 compared with
