New nuclear power station at Penly

PENLY in the Seine-Maritime is to be the site of France’s second third-generation nuclear power station.

EDF, which is also responsible for building the first power station of this new type at Flamanville, Manche (pictured), has been picked as the main investor and operator at Penly as well.

This follows uncertainty over whether EDF or GDF Suez would be given the job. GDF Suez is expected to be a minority partner in the project. The announcement of a third site is expected shortly, with that one expected to go to GDF Suez.

French electricity exports have been decreasing and the government is keen to boost production.

At present EDF controls all French nuclear power stations, but the government wants to see other firms enter the sector. Brussels has also been calling for more competition in the French energy market.

GDF Suez sees the chance to run a new “EPR” power station as an opportunity to showcase its expertise to the world.

“European Pressurised Reactor” power stations are safer and more efficient than previous ones.

Photo: AFP/Jean-Paul Barbier