France possesses one of the largest nuclear power programmes worldwide. The country has 56 operable nuclear reactors producing a total of 61 gigawatts (GW), which is equivalent to over 70% of its electricity. At present, the country holds the highest share of nuclear energy in the world.
Last month, students from the MSc in Energy Management specialisation visited EDF’s Saint-Alban nuclear power plant – a site built in 1979 and located on the Rhone river in the Isère department, 50 km downstream from Lyon. This activity was organised by the ESCP Energy Society and sponsored by our School.
The Big Picture
- Entered into commercial operations in May 1986
- Two 1.3 MW nuclear reactors
- Provides electricity for six million households in the region without producing CO2
About the Visit
Participants went through a very strict safety process required by the French Government and heard key insights on:
- Energy security and the role of nuclear power in France
- Nuclear energy and the electricity-generation process
- Maintenance processes
- Operational challenges and benefits
Useful links:
ESCP Business School
MSc in Energy Management
ESCP Energy Society