France wants more new nuclear power plants | outside

Earlier, France said it was considering a maximum of 14 new nuclear power plants, six of which are planned and possibly eight more new. But now the country wants more. “I asked the industry clearly: Can you build more than 14 reactors until 2050?” said Panier Ronacher.

Only when this question has been answered will you want to dig further. Our energy mix must be based on scientific and industrial reality. We cannot base the energy mix on ideology alone.”

To be carbon dioxide neutral in 2050, Panier-Ronatcher noted, more electricity is needed than now. “I have to mention the limitations on how much additional energy we can produce with solar, offshore wind farms and nuclear power, so that Parliament can make the best choices.”

The minister has already asked the EDF electricity company, which is about to be completely nationalized again, to produce more nuclear energy. To do this, the utility company must find out whether existing nuclear power plants can operate more efficiently.

France is the second largest producer of nuclear energy in the world after the United States. The country has 56 nuclear power plants. Parliament is currently studying a bill to shorten the procedures for building new nuclear power plants. Construction of the first new reactors should begin within four years.