EDF confirmed that the 1,630 MW Flamanville EPR tank will be connected to the French grid and undergo production tests on 25 May 2019 and reach full power capacity on 16 November 2019. Besides, the reactor start-up and the loading of the fuel are still planned for the end of 2018.
At the end of June 2017, the French nuclear regulator Autorité de Sûreté Nucléaire (ASN) gave its green light to the EPR tank despite defects in the tank steel, considering that the mechanical characteristics of the bottom and the lid of the tank are sufficient in terms of safety, even in the event of an accident. However, EDF will have to carry out periodic additional checks to ensure that there are no further defects and will have to change the upper part of the tank by 2024 at the latest, which will add around €100m to the €10.5bn project.
The ASN will submit its draft opinion to the public in the coming days and the consultation will last until September 2017. The ASN will also consult the Higher Council for the Prevention of Technological Hazards and will finalize its opinion following these consultations in October 2017.
Searching for proven generation costs?
Then CAPEX & LCOE is the database you need. The module provides exclusive insights on both Capital Expenditure and Levelised Cost of Electricity.
Make informed decisions in terms of which technologies to invest in and where. In just a few clicks, access unique, premium data on both thermal and renewable power generation costs by technology and by country. Put our detailed, reliable information to use and benchmark your project.