An internal memo EDF is concerned about the state of nuclear power plants … – Le Figaro

backup power systems, very degraded, are involved. An observation Worrying because they can be used to cool the fuel in case of overheating.

It is a document for the less embarrassing that reveals the daily Le Parisien . The newspaper has indeed obtained an internal memo EDF clearly indicating that diesel generators, which aims to provide an alternative source of energy in a nuclear plant, are in a “degraded” state. However, these facilities are absolutely crucial: it is they who ensure the functioning of the vital elements of a nuclear plant (with, in principle, a range of fifteen days) in case of problems. Proof of considerable importance: the Fukushima nuclear accident occurred especially because the generators of this type were drowned by the tsunami. They have then not been possible to effectively supply the fuel cooling system that is allowed to warm up to the explosion. Now, after reading this note, there is no need for a wave of twenty meters high to make them off, as some would not be very far from that state.

According to the internal note indeed, throughout the review of 2014, the number of generators classified as “correct” category is … zero. There is simply no having a fully satisfactory condition. And 13.2% are in a situation that EDF itself “unacceptable”. The others are equally divided between the “monitoring” and “degraded”. in particular are highlighted the “air leakage”, “oil” and even “fuel”.

Asked by Le Parisien , the Nuclear Safety Authority admits coyly EDF “has room for improvement” on the issue of the status of its generators. If Ségolène Royal, the Minister of the Environment, will actually extend to ten years the period of these plants, these generators which hold probably not this time without serious maintenance, could be a particularly thorny obstacle.