France has shut down two nuclear reactors due to a record heatwave
This is according to AFP.
French energy operator EDF has shut down two reactors at the Noisy-sur-Seine power station on the River Seine and the Bugey power station on the River Rhône near Lyon.
Nuclear power stations use river water to cool their reactors. The water is then returned to the river at a higher temperature.
During periods of extreme heat, this poses a risk to the river’s ecosystem. If the river water is already overheated, the additional discharge of hot water can harm aquatic flora and fauna.
This is why EDF has shut down the reactors to comply with river temperature limits.
Which nuclear power stations have already curtailed operations
According to AFP, a few days ago the Noisy-sur-Seine plant had already reduced output at another reactor. This was done to minimise the difference between the temperature of the water drawn from the Seine and that of the water returned to it.
Earlier, the Golfech nuclear power station in south-western France was also shut down due to the heatwave. Its operations were suspended shortly before midnight on 22 June due to environmental restrictions.
What this means for France’s energy sector
Nuclear power stations play a key role in electricity generation in France. However, during periods of extreme heat, the country’s energy sector faces a double challenge: demand for electricity is rising, whilst some capacity has to be curtailed due to environmental protection requirements.
According to AFP, Wednesday and Thursday were the hottest days on record in France.
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