Gravelines: Launch of the EPR2 “Grand Chantier” mega project

On June 18, 2025, the construction project for two EPR2 reactors at the Gravelines site entered a key new phase with the launch of the “Grand Chantier” (Major Construction Site) initiative. Drawing on lessons learned from Flamanville 3 and Penly, this approach aims to proactively organize all conditions required to host and carry out the future works: transportation, accommodation, infrastructure, employment, training, and public services.

In Dunkirk on June 18, 2025, the French government, EDF, and local stakeholders officially launched the “Grand Chantier” initiative to prepare for the arrival of two EPR2 reactors at the Gravelines Nuclear Power Plant. This launch marks a decisive step in the rollout of the EPR2 program and reflects an integrated approach to regional planning in support of the nuclear revival.

The “Grand Chantier”: anticipate, structure, support

Inspired by the experiences at Flamanville and Penly, the “Grand Chantier” initiative is designed to anticipate the regional impacts of this major industrial project, especially in terms of housing, mobility, training, employment, public services, and the involvement of local businesses.

The initiative is based on a shared governance model, bringing together the French State (via the Interministerial Delegation for New Nuclear), local authorities, EDF, economic actors, and training organizations. Coordination of this initiative has been entrusted to Michel Marbaix, appointed as regional coordinator by the Prefect. “We will be able to build on the work initiated two years ago at Penly,” said Xavier Ursat, EDF’s Executive Director for New Nuclear Projects, in a LinkedIn post, highlighting the importance of leveraging past experience to streamline the preparation and execution phases.

A transformation driver for the region

The Dunkirk area, already a major industrial hub, now benefits from a large-scale strategic project. The construction site will mobilize several thousand workers and will require specific infrastructure: housing, roads, public transportation, utilities, and more. A major effort is also underway to forecast and address future skill needs.

Promoting local employment and leveraging regional expertise are key pillars of the charter signed on June 18. The charter also outlines joint funding mechanisms (public, private, and EDF), with priority given to initiatives that directly enhance site performance and create lasting value for the region. “Successfully delivering the EPR2 industrial project by anticipating its needs, and leaving a lasting and fair legacy for the region,” summarizes the joint press release from the French government and EDF.

A response to energy and industrial challenges

The selection of Gravelines aligns with a clear industrial and energy rationale. The presence of the existing NPP (Nuclear Power Plant), proximity to major ports, strong grid interconnections, and the growing need for low-carbon dispatchable electricity to support new industrial projects (electrometallurgy, hydrogen, battery production) all reinforce the site’s relevance.

“The EPR2 project will contribute to the region’s industrial decarbonization strategy, while addressing future energy and climate challenges,” EDF notes. By supporting energy sovereignty, industrial re-shoring, and the training of a new generation of nuclear professionals, the Gravelines “Grand Chantier” goes well beyond a simple construction project. It is a national strategic infrastructure operation with strong local value creation. ■