Energy policy debate. Nuclear choice: which consequences for France? Elements for a debate

This synthesis was elaborated by the Information Pole of the French nuclear energy society (SFEN). It presents the strategic and economical advantages of the French electronuclear policy: energy independence (uranium reserves, security of supplies); cheap electricity; high-level nuclear technology and international reputation of the French nuclear know-how (technology exports); employment linked with the nuclear industry; environmental impacts (no air pollution and greenhouse gases released by nuclear power plants); necessity of a new generation of nuclear reactors: the European Pressurized Reactor (EPR), for the replacement of the reactors which will be decommissioned during the 2015-2025 era. (J.S.)