The EDF Group are actively extending the operating life of their 1300 MW nuclear reactor fleet to beyond 40 years, with plans that involve significant upgrades to meet safety standards.
As part of these ongoing works, Veolia’s experts in nuclear have been awarded the PTR Bis 1300 MW contract, to be completed as part of a temporary consortium with Mediaco, covering the requalification for the PTR Bis heat sink, across the entire 1300 MW and N4 nuclear fleet.
The PTR Bis system is a mobile emergency cooling system designed for pressurized water reactors, to remove decay heat from the spent fuel pool (BK pool) during emergency situations; such as a loss of off-site electrical power and failure of the permanent on-site cooling system. It was developed following the lessons learned from Fukushima to significantly strengthen nuclear safety measures, and serves as a critical, independent backup to ensure the fuel pool water remains cool and at a safe level, preventing the water from boiling away and exposing the stored fuel rods, which could lead to radioactive release.
The contract will be completed across 24 units and is a testament to Veolia’s operational excellence and combined expertise in both nuclear and water treatment fields. It also highlights our ongoing relationship with EDF, who have previously entrusted us with a similar project on the 900 MW wind farm. The work conducted on the 900 MW wind farm is progressing well and will finish in January 2027.
