While Brussels recognizes the project’s contribution to security of supply and decarbonisation, it will review whether the huge state support for EDF does not unduly distort competition and EU state aid rules.
The European Commission (EC) confirmed on Tuesday that it has begun a detailed investigation into the French system of state aid for the construction and operation of six new nuclear reactors and its compliance with European Union rules. TASR informs about it according to the EC press release.
- The European Commission has launched an in-depth investigation into French state aid.
- France plans to build six new nuclear reactors with an output of ten gigawatts.
- The new reactors are to replace older facilities and support decarbonisation goals.
- The Commission is concerned about the disproportionate strengthening of the market power of the energy company EDF.
- France has chosen the core as a key pillar in its energy policy.
France plans to build 6 new nuclear reactors
Initiating an in-depth review is a standard procedure for complex support packages and provides France and interested parties with an opportunity to submit their comments. The result of the investigation is not predetermined, the EC emphasized in a statement.
France notified the Commission in November 2025 of its plan to support the construction of six reactors with a total capacity of around 10 gigawatts to be commissioned between 2038 and 2044.
The project is worth almost 73 billion euros
The project aims to increase the security of electricity supplies in France and in neighboring countries, replace older equipment and contribute to the EU’s decarbonisation goals. The estimated construction costs are 72.8 billion euros.
The recipient of state support will be Électricité de France SA (EDF), which owns and operates the entire French nuclear fleet. A special purpose-built company fully owned by EDF will be created to implement the project.
The investigation will focus on the adequacy and proportionality of the support package
Based on a preliminary assessment, the European Commission considers the project necessary and recognizes that the support can facilitate the development of economic activity, contribute to the security of energy supply and decarbonization. Nevertheless, he considers it necessary to verify whether the proposed measures fully comply with the EU rules on state aid. The in-depth investigation will focus on the adequacy and proportionality of the support package. The Commission is also concerned that the aid could strengthen or indirectly consolidate EDF’s market power. The EC will also check the compliance of the project with other provisions of EU law.
According to the EU treaties, member states are free to determine the composition of their energy mix. As part of its national energy policy, France has decided to support nuclear energy as a key element of the country’s future energy security.
