Should the lifespan of EDF’s nuclear reactors, the main source of electricity in the country, be extended as much as possible? In the space of five years, the terms of the debate have evolved. In 2020, by political decision, the government said goodbye to the two reactors at Fessenheim (Haut-Rhin), and planned the closure of twelve others by 2035, in its second multi-annual energy program (PPE). Today, nothing like this: while focusing on the deployment of wind and solar power, its third PPE project now plans to “continue the operation of nuclear power reactors after 50 years then 60 years, as long as all applicable safety requirements are respected”. This, in addition to the construction of six new units.
In its new report, dated Monday November 17, the Court of Auditors makes its contribution to the debate. From the 120 pages of this document relating to the maintenance of EDF’s nuclear power fleet, it appears that “the continued operation of the existing nuclear fleet, for up to 50 years, then 60 years, could prove particularly profitable for EDF”. At least, if the public group “achieves its production forecasts and subject to electricity sales conditions and prices, with high expected internal rates of return”.
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