In the midst of a transformation of the French industrial landscape, EDF is embarking on a major undertaking: to construct its EPR2 nuclear reactors in just 70 months. This substantial reduction of the timeline, from 105 months to less than six years, underscores the urgency to control costs and accelerate the pace of the energy transition. Under the leadership of Luc Rémont, the challenge is colossal but essential to restore the company’s credibility after previous delays. Innovative strategies, such as serial construction and strengthened collaboration with suppliers, are being implemented to turn this ambitious vision into reality. This project, inspired by the successes of the defense and space sectors, is shaping a new era for French nuclear power, with reactors that are simpler, faster, and more economical.
EDF has launched an ambitious project to construct its EPR2 nuclear reactors, aiming for a timeframe of only 70 months. This challenge is crucial to limit the cost of new nuclear, which now reaches around 70 billion euros. Luc Rémont, CEO of EDF, emphasized that construction speed is essential. To achieve this goal, EDF is focusing on serial construction and a standardized design, along with the Excell plan focused on quality. A task force has been created to leverage global innovations, notably inspired by the reactors built in China. The strategy also relies on a detailed maturity review to ensure the feasibility of the schedule, thus conditioning the attractiveness of the French industry and the cost of electricity.
the challenge of building EPR2 reactors in record time
In 2021, there were initial estimates for the construction of the EPR2 nuclear reactors, with a projected cost of around 52 billion euros. Today, this figure has reached 70 billion euros, not including financial costs. Luc Rémont, the CEO of EDF, highlighted the crucial need to accelerate construction speed during a session at the National Assembly. His goal: to complete these reactors in 70 months, or less than six years between the first poured concrete and their industrial commissioning, a significant challenge considering the group’s past with the EPR at Flamanville. Learn more about EDF’s crazy goal.
The EDF project aims to renew their approach by streamlining construction. In just 70 months, the company hopes to overcome the obstacles of previous reactors and demonstrate its ability to meet deadlines. Drawing on accumulated experience and lessons learned from the Flamanville site, the group is undertaking ambitious measures, such as the industrialization of the construction process and the standardization of components to save time and optimize costs. As part of this, EDF aims to build its reactors 2 to 3 times faster than in the past.
strategic adaptation and innovations
To achieve the set goal, EDF adopts a strategy of constant adaptation and innovation. The group plans to build the reactors in pairs with a simplified design, which reduces initial complexities. By working closely with its suppliers, particularly within the Excell plan, and investing in its subsidiaries Framatome and Arabelle Solutions, EDF ensures efficient serial production. Thanks to this model, inspired by defense and space programs, EDF hopes for a significant acceleration in the construction process. The EPR2 is thus designed to be the worthy successor of the EPR at Flamanville, but with a faster and more economical construction.
the crucial role of the inter-professional delegation and experts
In November 2022, the government established an inter-professional delegation dedicated to new nuclear, led by Joël Barre, to oversee the program. Its role is crucial to ensure that projects proceed under optimal conditions. Recommendations from the review conducted by about fifteen experts, who examined the project from March 2023 to July 2024, prompted EDF to adjust its approach. Among these recommendations, greater anticipation of regulation and clarification of financing were emphasized.
