The Troubling Journey of the Flamanville EPR: Delays and Soaring Costs
The Flamanville EPR project, intended to be France’s most powerful reactor, has faced significant delays and cost overruns since its inception in 2007. Initially estimated to take 54 months and cost 3.3 billion euros, the completion has stretched to over 200 months and approximately 13.2 billion euros, with some estimates suggesting costs could reach 19.1 billion euros. This situation reflects unrealistic planning by Électricité de France (EDF) and internal conflicts with its rival Areva, raising concerns for the future of France’s nuclear industry.