nuclear-news

Nuclear power: EDF assesses the cost of reactor modulation for the first time (but its calculation is incomplete)

The overcapacity in electricity production in France for the past two years has forced EDF to modulate the output of its nuclear, hydroelectric, and thermal power plants twice as much. A partial estimate (based solely on the nuclear fleet) puts the annual additional cost at 50 million euros.

 L’Usine Nouvelle 17th Feb 2026

EDF’s nuclear power plants are designed for this very purpose. When electricity production significantly exceeds consumption, the 57 reactors are capable of reducing their output by 80% in half an hour, then increasing it again. This is called modulation. This feature is used by the grid operator for frequency balancing, but also by EDF to optimize its production based on market prices, or to conserve fuel. The problem is that this modulation, when too frequent, impacts the equipment in the secondary circuit and its maintenance.

However, for the past two years, the system… (Subscribers only) https://www.usinenouvelle.com/energie/nucleaire-edf-evalue-pour-la-premiere-fois-le-cout-de-la-modulation-des-reacteurs-mais-son-calcul-est-incomplet.7K7BKP26AJBU3IDU2U6UMN2WAA.html

February 21, 2026 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | business and costs, France