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‘Madame Non’ in battle to keep the nuclear hot seat

‘Madame Non’ in battle to keep the nuclear hot seat FT.com UK By Peggy HollingerPublished: March 13 2009 02:00 “……………….The French government is nearing a decision on the future of Areva, its state-owned nuclear champion, and with it the fate of one of France’s most internationally recognised business figures.In recent weeks criticism has intensified over the chief executive of Areva, Ms Lauvergeon’s management of the group, which she has led since 1999. It has been fuelled by a series of mishaps that could jeopardise France’s proud boast to be the world’s leading player in the nuclear renaissance.

First there was the sudden decision in January by German partner Siemens to withdraw from a long-standing reactor venture, to set up a rival alliance with Russia’s Rosatom.

Then there was the revelation of a staggering €1.7bn ($2.2bn) loss on Areva’s first new generation EPR reactor in Finland, raising questions over the costs of the technology that will spearhead France’s nuclear ambitions…………………………..The setbacks come as the government reflects on how best to guarantee Areva’s future as a nuclear champion, while her relationship with Mr Sarkozy is strained.

FT.com / UK – ‘Madame Non’ in battle to keep the nuclear hot seat

March 14, 2009 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | Uncategorized