FR23 Nuclear Plant

Timetable: 9:00-11.30
1) Arrival at the plant: the group is welcomed by one of the EDF Group managers and is taken into the meeting room to attend the presentation by the nuclear engineer.
Students discover the different ways of producing electricity and the structure and operation of the nuclear plant. The plant occupies an area of 150 hectares and has 6 uranium nuclear reactors that produce an average of 900 MW each. In operation for more than 40 years, it covers the energy needs of most of France and supplies energy to partner countries such as Italy.
Gravelines contributes to the economic development of the territory and is committed to implementing economic, social and environmental dimensions as its core strategy.
During the presentation, students and teachers have the opportunity to interact with questions and observations that allow them to clarify doubts and deepen their knowledge.
2) After the presentation, the visit continues with a tour around the outside of the plant, in which the safety rules put in place against the dispersion of radioactive waste are highlighted. Around the plant, there are fences and natural barriers in order to isolate the plant and to ensure strict compliance with safety regulations according to international standards.
3) The visit ends back at the beginning. Souvenir photos are taken, and students and teachers receive an information kit contained in a bag which had been produced by recycling two plastic bottles.

The students followed with great interest and participation throughout the activity. It has proved useful and relevant with their studies. Furthermore, it has made them aware of how it is possible to put into practice an effective change to energy  production practices, that will lead the country towards decarbonization and towards a greater use of renewable sources. The students, who were happy with the experience, thanked the EDF staff and later created a link where they will be able to create and share their impressions.