The EPR2 is a new generation nuclear reactor project. This model is an evolution of the EPR currently used and which was built in the nuclear power plants of Flamanville (France), Taïshan (China), Olkiluoto (Finland) and Hinkley Point C (England). The EPR2 (1670 MWe) require more space than the first planned 1310 MW(e) reactors, two of which are currently in service at Golfech. The French energy company EDF therefore acquired an additional 40 hectares last year. The Golfech site was initially designed to accommodate four reactors, which places it among the potential candidates for expansion. With the acquisition of 200 hectares on the banks of the Garonne by EDF, and the addition of an additional 40 hectares last year, the necessary land area appears to be available. The design lifespan of an EPR is 60 years.
Credits: DR
Twelve years late, the largest nuclear reactor in France is failing in Flamanville (Manche). It could be connected to the network at the end of the fall. Meanwhile, the Golfech site is preparing to welcome two new EPR type reactors on the site.For several months, the local authorities of Tarn-et-Garonne have submitted an ambitious application for the Golfech nuclear power plant as part of the national “EPR2” program. This program provides for the construction of several new generation EPR reactors. This candidacy received strong support this Thursday, October 17, 2024, with the vote of a deliberation of support by Toulouse Métropole. The deliberation voted by Toulouse Métropole marked a decisive turning point for Golfech's candidacy. Local elected officials underline the importance of this project in meeting the growing needs for low-carbon energy in Occitania. According to them, these needs will increase significantly in the coming decades, making it necessary to install new nuclear energy production capacities. However, several questions arise regarding the feasibility of this project. Concerns include the ability of the Garonne to cool reactors during periods of drought, the reliability of EPR technology, as well as the cost of future dismantling of power plants and waste treatment. These aspects must be carefully studied to guarantee the safety and sustainability of the project without having an impact on agricultural production which will also need water with global warming. Indeed, previous problems linked to the high temperature of the Garonne led to a reduction in the operating power of unit no. 2 of the plant in the summer of 2022. It is important to note that the Golfech plant has been developed to accommodate four units, two of which are currently operational. The site has an additional land reserve of almost 100 hectares, ready to accommodate new reactors. This availability of space is a major asset for the project.
1,500 OPERATING JOBSTo support this project, elected officials also put forward the employment argument. The construction of two new generation EPRs, designed for at least 60 years of operation, would enable the mobilization of 7,000 jobs over the 7 years of the project and the creation of 1,500 operating jobs. Today, the Golfech power plant employs a thousand people, it is the first company in the department.
67.5 MILLION IN TAXES AND LOCAL FEESThis project therefore represents a major economic opportunity for the region and the surrounding local communities. In 2020, the site's tax contribution remained significant with more than 67.5 million euros paid in the form of taxes. €44 million was thus paid in 2020 by EDF for property and network taxation (Ifer), mainly for the benefit of three communities: the commune of Golfech (1,100 inhabitants) for 23.1% (nearly of €10.2 million), the Tarn-et-Garonne department for 31% (nearly €14 million), and CC2R for 36% (nearly €16 million). Since 2020, 125 million euros of investment have been made with local companies, we can read on the group's website.
TWO-THIRDS OF REGIONAL ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTIONThe rise of green energies and the project to build two EPRs in Golfech come at a time of falling electricity consumption in France and Occitanie. Before an expected rebound, from 2025-2026, with the increase in industrial, public and domestic electrical uses. With a power of 1,670 MWe and optimal control capacity, a pair of EPR2s would produce each year the equivalent of two-thirds of the 2022 energy consumption of the Occitanie region (34.8 TWh).
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