Nuclear reactors in France near end of design life

France’s nuclear reactors, which generate about 68% of the country’s electricity, were originally designed to operate for 40 years. Now, the government and energy company EDF are considering extending their lifespans to 50 or even 60 years to ensure continued power supply.

Safety authority reviews extension plans

The Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority (ASNR) has not found any immediate obstacles to operating reactors beyond 60 years. However, its president, Pierre-Marie Abadie, said more research is needed to confirm the safety measures before they are formally accepted for review at the 60-year mark.

Draft opinion opens for public feedback

ASNR has released a draft opinion on extending reactor lifespans, which is currently open for public consultation until December 2. After this period, the authority will finalize its position, which will guide future decisions on reactor extensions.

EDF concerned about reactor retirements

EDF is closely monitoring the timeline because 56 reactors built in the 1980s could be retired soon if their lifespans are not extended. These reactors were constructed over a short period, increasing the risk of a rapid decline in nuclear capacity without an extension.

Review focuses on future safety

Abadie clarified that the current review is not an approval for early extensions but rather a forward-looking assessment of what will be required to safely operate reactors at the 60-year mark. The findings will inform future safety demonstrations and regulatory decisions.