Extension of operation of nuclear plants. Synthesis of the qualitative study and of the citizen committee

The author comments the results of a survey which was based on 20 interviews with French citizens of different ages, political opinions, geographical locations and also different opinions on nuclear energy. The objective was to obtain their perception and feeling about the issue of nuclear plant service life extension, in order to assess whether they were aware of this issue, could understand it, and what was their opinion about it. Then, these citizens have been gathered three weeks later and met three experts (a representative of a NGO, a member of the ASN and a representative of EDF) who answered their questions and discussed their arguments. These citizens then made statements and recommendations. It appeared that the issue of lifetime extension is hardly known by the public, and is therefore not a topic of public debate but a modality within the important debate about nuclear energy. However, the citizen committee accepts this lifetime extension for different reasons (no known alternatives; economic aspects; safety, nuclear energy is non polluting energy; jobs will be saved) but under some conditions which depend on the opinion on nuclear energy (rather for or rather against). The opinion may change negatively in relationship with some issues: the future of radioactive wastes and dismantled installations, quality and traceability of subcontracted components. This survey is an opportunity to question the general relationship of French people with nuclear energy. In this respect, five profiles are identified: confident, resigned, realistic and reasonable, realistic and anxious, and opponent