EPR2
The Penly EPR2, a project that stands out from the crowd in terms of size, performance and safety.
In 2023, Eiffage Génie Civil wins the EPR2 contract
In November 2023, Eiffage Génie Civil and EDF signed the contract for civil engineering work on the first two EPR2 reactors at Penly in Normandy.
This major project - comprising 2 production units and 70 structures - demonstrates the Eiffage Group's ability to lead major projects and support major industrial companies in their response to the challenges of decarbonization and energy sovereignty in France. A project in synergy with several of the Group's areas of expertise.
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970,000 m³of structural concrete
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180,000tonnes of rebar
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5 million m³earthworks
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20 hectaresof offshore extension
What is an EPR2 reactor?
The EPR2 is a generation 3 reactor, an evolution of the EPR, while retaining its strengths, first and foremost its high level of safety. Designed to operate for at least 60 years, it takes into account the consequences of global warming right from the design stage. With an electrical output of some 1,670 MWe, a pair of EPR2 reactors could produce the equivalent of the current electricity consumption of the Normandy region.
The EPR2 project requires substantial preparatory work, including earthworks, marine works, underground works, foundations, demolition and retaining structures.
The EPR2 reactors require a larger footprint than the existing reactors, due to their higher power output. To accommodate the new facilities, Eiffage Génie Civil teams will be reshaping the cliff and extending the offshore platform. The spoil generated will be reused on site as a matter of priority, as part of a circular economy approach.
This will be followed by the structural steelwork phase, with the installation of the liners and framework, the design and construction of the six-storey, 15,000 m2 floor area operations building, and the construction of the water intake and discharge structures...
Audrey Cordina, dump truck driver
"On the construction site, I am a dump truck driver, and my job is to transport the chalk extracted from the cliff and deposit it directly into the sea!
I am very proud to be able to contribute, in my own small way, to the construction of this new platform for the EPR2 project in Penly.
I have been fascinated by construction sites since I was twenty. It was only natural that I trained for this job! I have now been doing this job, which I love, for four years. The best thing is that I am still learning every day, and I hope to progress in my career in the future."
Ziane Belkacem, welder
"My role on the construction site is welding.
As a trained welder, I have worked extensively for Eiffage on the Grand Paris Express projects. Today, I am in charge of civil engineering welding operations on the EPR2 construction site in Penly.
What I enjoy is seeing my colleagues again and working in a stimulating and friendly atmosphere."
Ameur Mkhinini, formworker
"I love my job as a formworker, whether it's traditional formwork or using metal formwork. It's a job where you have to be versatile. In addition to formwork itself, we often have to do welding and even drive small construction machinery to move materials or components.
What I like most about my job is the team spirit. We work hand in hand towards a common goal, and there's great satisfaction in creating beautiful structures."
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