EDF Orders Nuclear Boilers for Future EPR2s from Framatome

EDF has just signed a contract with Framatome for the boilers that will equip the three future pairs of EPR2 reactors. The contract covers the design, manufacturing, assembly, and commissioning of the six boilers.

EDF has entered into a contract with Framatome for six nuclear boilers as part of the upcoming EPR2 program. More specifically, it involves the supply of primary components (the vessel and its lid, the steam generators, and the pressurizer), the safety control-command systems, the core instrumentation, and the equipment associated with the boiler. The contract spans from design to commissioning, including the manufacturing and assembly of the six EPR2s planned for Penly, Gravelines, and Bugey.

“This contract, which includes termination clauses, allows for the continued preparation of the EPR2 program,” EDF specified to the French Nuclear Society (SFEN). “This contract is the culmination of significant work in specification and optimization, essential to ensure the expected performance throughout the execution of the program for 3 pairs. It also allows for capitalizing on the experience gained from the first EPRs in operation or under construction,” the electricity company announced.

Good News for Framatome

This order adds to other good news for Framatome. Indeed, two weeks ago, the company announced the signing of multi-billion euro contracts with Sizewell C Ltd., which is overseeing the construction of two EPR reactors in Suffolk, England. These contracts include, among other things, the supply and commissioning of the nuclear boiler as well as their fuel supply. Additionally, in April, the Framatome site in Le Creusot was awarded a prize dedicated to relocalization for the repatriation of the manufacturing of reactor core internals.

News on the EPR2

Regarding the EPR2, a public debate is upcoming for the two units in Gravelines (North), following the one completed in 2023 for the two EPR2s in Penly (Seine-Maritime). After joint work between the Interministerial Delegation for New Nuclear (DINN) and EDF, it was decided last February to postpone by six months the finalization of the Basic Design of the future reactors. This delay does not impact the program while the first concrete of the Penly EPRs is not expected until 2027. However, it is intended to launch the project on the best possible tracks by securing the design maturity, “de-risking” the project, and seeking economic optimization. This work should also facilitate achieving a series effect on the first EPR2s. ■

Gaïc Le Gros (Sfen)

Photo ©Framatome Cyrille Dupont Saint-Marcel