France Delays First EPR2 Nuclear Reactor to 2038 Amid Rising Costs

The French government finalizes financing plans for its nuclear program while emphasizing energy independence and advanced technologies.

The first EPR2 reactor's operation has been officially delayed from 2035 to 2038, with EDF tasked to finalize cost and timeline estimates by the end of 2025.
Program costs have surged significantly, now estimated between €67.4 billion and €100 billion, including financing expenses.
The government will provide state-backed loans covering at least half of construction costs and a price guarantee of €100/MWh through a contract for difference.
Efforts to secure uranium supplies for 20-30 years and explore a closed nuclear fuel cycle are central to achieving energy sovereignty.
Small modular reactor projects are being evaluated, with only the most viable expected to receive continued support.