from EDF (EPA:EDF)
Edf: Update on the Flamanville EPR: the reactor produces its first electrons on the national electricity grid
Update on the Flamanville EPR: the reactor produces its first electrons on the national electricity grid
21 December 2024 – EDF teams have achieved the first connection of the Flamanville EPR to the national grid at 11:48am. The reactor is now generating electricity.
Since the first nuclear reaction on 3 September 20241, EDF teams have conducted a series of tests and inspections to gradually increase the reactor's power. Flamanville 3 reactor was connected to the national grid on 21 December 2024 at 11:48am and has produced 100 MW of electricity.
Luc Rémont, Chairman and CEO of EDF stated: "The coupling of the Flamanville EPR is a historical moment for the entire nuclear sector. I would like to salute all the teams who have met the challenges encountered during this project with the greatest tenacity and never compromising on safety. Flamanville 3 joins the three EPRs already in operation in the world, in China and Finland."
Following this initial coupling, in accordance with the startup operations, the phases of testing and of connection and disconnection to the grid will continue for several months, under the supervision of the ASN, until the reactor reaches 100% power.
Date: 21 December 2024 |
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Press release
Starting up a reactor is a long and complex operation. It requires the full mobilization of teams and is carried out at each stage with the highest level of safety and industrial reliability.
The volume of electricity produced from the first coupling until the first scheduled maintenance shutdown and fuel reload (Control Visit No. 1) is estimated at approximately 14TWh.
About EDF The EDF Group is a key player in the energy transition, as an integrated energy operator engaged in all aspects of the energy business: power generation, distribution, trading, energy sales and energy services. The Group is a world leader in low-carbon energy, with a low carbon output of 434TWh([1]), a diverse generation mix based mainly on nuclear and renewable energy (including hydropower). It is also investing in new technologies to support the energy transition. EDF’s raison d’être is to build a net zero energy future with electricity and innovative solutions and services, to help save the planet and drive well-being and economic development. The Group supplies energy and services to approximately 40.9 million customers (2) and generated consolidated sales of €139.7 billion in 2023.
(1) see EDF URD 2023, sections 1.2.3, 1.3.2, and 3.1 (2) Customers are counted per delivery site. A customer may have two delivery points. |
