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EPR: Renewing the nuclear infrastructure

Just like the previous generation of nuclear power plants, the EPR (European Pressurized Reactor) is a pressurized water reactor. Power is generated in a core filled with water at a pressure of 155 bars, in which rods of enriched uranium (containing 3 to 5% uranium-235) are exposed to an intense flow of neutrons. This causes uranium to fragment, releasing more neutrons — sustaining the chain reaction — and energy. This energy heats the water, and both are evacuated to produce steam that powers a turbine used to generate electricity.
In terms of technology, the EPR is not significantly different from the existing facilities. Yet it has been the subject of much debate: while its promoters emphasize its very high degree of safety due to greater impermeability and reinforced backup systems for protection in the case of an accident, its detractors agree that the system is too complex. Its direct rival, the American AP-1000, offers a more streamlined design and simpler build. In addition, even if the EPR could become the standard in terms of safety in the post-Fukushima world, some observers feel that it is too early to switch to third-generation reactors. They argue that it would be better to wait for the fourth generation, while continuing to operate second-generation reactors, the most recent of which are sometimes considered to be generation III reactors.
Two EPRs are under construction in China, another in Finland and a fourth in France, at the Flamanville power station. Scheduled for launch in 2016, its cost amounts to €6 billion, or twice the original budget.