Lessons From France’s Nuclear Program

France is pressing forward with a bold new nuclear strategy, aiming to build six next-generation reactors after decades of delays and cost overrun. The EPR2 program focuses on simplified designs, streamlined oversight, and a stronger workforce to avoid the failures of Flamanville 3, which became a cautionary tale of poor planning and spiraling costs. Backed by government financing and long-term revenue guarantees, France hopes to drive nuclear costs down while securing energy independence in an era of geopolitical uncertainty. These lessons carry important implications for the United States as it considers its own nuclear future.