A severe heatwave across Europe has forced France to temporarily shut down several nuclear reactors. Reports suggest that extreme temperatures may have contributed to around 10,000 excess deaths across the continent, raising serious concerns about public health and energy production.
EDF, the state-owned electricity company in France, confirmed that three nuclear reactors were taken offline on Sunday. The company also warned that seven additional reactors could be required to reduce their power output if temperatures remain high.
The affected facilities include Unit 2 at Golfech, Unit 3 at Bugey, and Unit 2 at Chooz. Together, these reactors account for nearly six percent of the total nuclear electricity generation capacity in France.
Officials explained that the reactors were not shut down because they were unable to operate safely in hot weather. Instead, the decision was taken to protect rivers and aquatic life.
Nuclear power plants use large amounts of river water to cool their reactors. After the cooling process, the water is released back into the river at a higher temperature. During a heatwave, river temperatures are already unusually high. Releasing additional warm water could reduce oxygen levels and harm fish, plants, and other wildlife.
An EDF spokesperson said that the reactors can safely withstand extreme temperatures. The temporary closures were described as environmental precautions rather than measures linked to nuclear safety concerns.
EDF has also provided possible restart dates based on current weather forecasts. The Bugey reactor is expected to return to service around July 19. Golfech may restart around July 22, while the Chooz reactor could resume operations by July 25.
However, these dates are not final and may change depending on weather conditions and river temperatures.
Nuclear energy supplies a major share of electricity in France, making the temporary shutdowns important for the country’s power network. Authorities will continue monitoring temperatures, environmental conditions, and electricity demand before allowing the affected reactors to return to full operation.
Also Read: Heatwave Expected to Intensify Further Next Week
