ISTANBUL

France is moving forward with plans to build six new nuclear reactors as part of its long-term energy strategy, following a key meeting of the Nuclear Policy Council (CPN) convened by President Emmanuel Macron.

The project, known as the EPR2 program, will see reactors constructed at Penly, Gravelines, and Bugey, with the first units expected to be operational by 2038, according to a statement from the Elysee Palace on Monday.

The council reaffirmed the central role of nuclear energy in France’s energy policy, stating: "The Nuclear Policy Council reaffirms the strategic nature of the revival of nuclear power in France."

To support the EPR2 program, the council approved a financing plan featuring "a subsidized government loan covering at least half of the construction costs and a contract for difference on nuclear production at a maximum price of €100/MWh in 2024."

The decision paves the way for final negotiations between the government and EDF, a French multinational electric utility company, with an investment decision expected in 2026, it added.

In addition to new reactors, the council addressed uranium supply security, validating a plan to expand Orano’s mining activities.

Investments in nuclear fuel recycling were also confirmed, with plans for a new spent fuel storage facility at La Hague, set to be operational by 2040.

France also reaffirmed its commitment to small modular reactors, with ongoing support for projects that could "lead to the commissioning of a demonstrator at the beginning of the 2030s."