Macron Boosts France’s Nuclear Future at Penly Plant Visit

Macron Boosts France’s Nuclear Future at Penly Plant Visit

March 12, 2026 David Kessler - News Editor News

Macron Champions Nuclear Energy During Visit to Penly Construction Site

French President Emmanuel Macron underscored the importance of nuclear power for France’s competitiveness and sovereignty on Thursday, March 12th, during a visit to the Penly nuclear power plant site in Seine-Maritime. The visit coincided with the fifth meeting of the Nuclear Policy Council (CPN) since 2022, focused on advancing France’s ambitious nuclear energy program. Macron celebrated the launch of what he termed the “construction site of the century,” referring to the planned construction of two new EPR2 reactors at Penly.

The President’s visit follows closely on the heels of the international nuclear summit held in Paris earlier this week, signaling a renewed commitment to nuclear energy in France and a push for wider European support. Macron expressed optimism about a shift in European attitudes towards nuclear power, noting that skepticism prevalent after the 2011 Fukushima disaster in Japan has diminished. “In Europe, a few years ago, they were telling us that nuclear power was not a good thing,” he stated, adding, “We have built a consensus, and Europe is following and believing.”

Six New Reactors on the Horizon

The core of Macron’s strategy involves the construction of at least six new reactors across France, a key component of the country’s revised energy roadmap. The Penly site, already home to two operational reactors, is one of three locations – alongside Gravelines and Bugey – selected to host the first pairs of EPR2 reactors.

During the CPN meeting, decisions were made to further solidify plans for the program, with a final investment decision from EDF expected by the end of 2026. This decision will officially launch the construction phase, marking a significant step forward in France’s nuclear ambitions. Macron also highlighted the development of compact modular reactors (SMRs) as part of the “new nuclear” program.

Financing the Nuclear Future

To support the substantial investment required for the EPR2 program, the government announced that the Livret A savings account will contribute to the financing. Specifically, a subsidized loan from the state, covering 60% of the program’s total cost, will be funded by the Caisse des Dépôts savings fund. This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing financial backing for the nuclear energy sector.

What are EPR2 Reactors?

The EPR2 (European Pressurized Reactor 2) represents the next generation of French nuclear technology. These reactors are designed to be more efficient and cost-effective than their predecessors, the EPRs, while maintaining a high level of safety. According to officials, the EPR2s are intended to be built more quickly and at a lower cost than previous reactor designs. The first two EPR2 reactors are slated to come online at Penly by 2038. You can discover more information about the EPR2 reactor design on the World Nuclear Association website: https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/nuclear-energy-options/nuclear-power-reactors/european-pressurised-reactor.aspx.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: Key Details of the Plan

While Macron’s visit and the CPN meeting signal a clear commitment to nuclear energy, several details remain subject to further development.

Confirmed:

  • The French government intends to build at least six new nuclear reactors.
  • Two EPR2 reactors will be constructed at the Penly site, with an expected operational date of 2038.
  • The Livret A savings account will partially finance the EPR2 program through a subsidized state loan.
  • The fifth Nuclear Policy Council (CPN) meeting was held on March 12, 2026, at the Penly nuclear power plant.

Unclear:

  • The precise cost of the entire six-reactor program has not been finalized.
  • The specific timeline for the construction of reactors beyond Penly remains to be determined.
  • Details regarding the financing structure beyond the Livret A contribution have not been fully disclosed.
  • The exact role and timeline for the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) are still evolving.

A Historical Shift in French Energy Policy

Macron’s strong advocacy for nuclear energy represents a significant shift in French energy policy. During his first term, he initially aimed to reduce the proportion of nuclear power in France’s energy mix. However, the energy crisis triggered by geopolitical events and the urgent need to address climate change prompted a reassessment of this strategy. The 2022 speech in Belfort marked a turning point, with Macron announcing a renewed commitment to nuclear energy as a cornerstone of France’s energy independence and decarbonization efforts.

This change in direction reflects a broader global trend, as countries increasingly recognize the role of nuclear power in achieving climate goals and ensuring energy security. As reported by Les Echos, Macron is seeking to solidify France’s position as a leader in the nuclear energy sector. https://www.lesechos.fr/industrie-services/energie-environnement/nucleaire-a-penly-macron-celebre-le-chantier-du-siecle-et-demande-a-edf-daffermir-le-devis-des-reacteurs-epr2-2220737

The Process: How Nuclear Projects Advance in France

The development of new nuclear power plants in France follows a rigorous and multi-stage process. It begins with strategic planning and policy decisions, such as those made during the CPN meetings. This is followed by site selection, environmental impact assessments, and public consultations. Once a site is approved, the project moves into the engineering and design phase, culminating in the construction phase. Finally, the reactor undergoes extensive testing and commissioning before it can begin operation.

EDF, the state-owned utility, plays a central role in this process, responsible for the construction and operation of nuclear power plants. The French Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) oversees the entire process, ensuring that all safety standards are met.