French Nuclear Authority Extends Lifespan of 20 Reactors to 50 Years

The French Nuclear and Radiation Protection Authority (ASNR) has approved extending the operational lifespan of 20 of EDF's 1300 MW nuclear reactors by ten years, from the originally intended 40 years to 50 years, pending safety upgrades. This decision is part of a broader strategy to maintain a significant portion of France's nuclear electricity production, which these reactors contribute over 40% of, while ensuring compliance with contemporary safety standards inspired by newer European Pressurised Reactor models. EDF must implement prescribed safety modifications before each reactor's fourth periodic review, starting with the first extension scheduled for 2026 at the Paluel reactor, and submit annual reports to ASNR on compliance. Each reactor’s extension will be reviewed individually, with public inquiries to consider facility-specific factors, reflecting a cautious approach to prolonging reactor operations through 2040. This extension aligns with France's nuclear ambitions under President Emmanuel Macron, which include expanding nuclear output by extending reactor lifespans and constructing new facilities amid financial and operational challenges. The ASNR's decision follows months of consultations and underscores the ongoing collaboration between EDF and French nuclear authorities to balance energy needs, decarbonization goals, and nuclear security.