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Gravelines nuclear plant EPR2 site preparation

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2026-08-29 06:53 UTC → 2026-09-04 03:48 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The French government has granted environmental authorization to the state-owned energy company EDF to begin preparatory works for two new EPR2 nuclear reactors at the Gravelines nuclear power plant in the Nord department. Authorized activities include site servicing, earthworks, ground reinforcement, and the creation of a watertight ~~enclosure. These works aim~~ enclosure to address soil stability on the polder ~~site,~~ site. These reactors, each with a capacity of 1,600 MW, are part of a broader national investment program. Construction at Gravelines is projected to begin in late 2026, with an estimated cost of 16.9 billion euros. The project is expected to employ up to 8,000 workers at its peak and create 1,200 permanent operational jobs, with a target commissioning date around 2038-2039. ~~Each reactor is expected to have a capacity of 1,600 MW.~~ In August 2026, the facility experienced significant operational disruptions caused by a massive influx of jellyfish. More than 200 tonnes of jellyfish clogged the seawater pumping station’s filtration systems. To ensure plant safety, EDF shut down reactors 3 and 6 preventatively, while reactors 1 and 2 were forced to operate at reduced capacity. Other units remained offline due to earlier incidents in the month or scheduled maintenance. EDF deployed seven boats, supported by the organization France Pêche Durable, to relocate the jellyfish to deeper waters. The company stated there is “no risk to the electrical grid” or overall plant safety. While similar phenomena occurred in August 2025, the increasing frequency and concentration of these blooms have raised questions regarding climate change and infrastructure resilience.

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