EDF could shut power output at Golfech nuclear plant due to hot weather

French utility EDF could shut down production at its 2,600 megawatt capacity Golfech nuclear power plant in the south of France from Tuesday July 23, due to the high temperature forecast on the Garonne river. The utility uses water from the river to cool the two reactors at the plant.

French meteorological services have forecast hot and dry weather across France next week, with a risk of a heatwave in the southeastern parts of the country. "Due to the temperature forecasts on the Garonne, production restrictions are likely to affect EDF’s nuclear power plant at Golfech from Tuesday July 23," the company said, adding that it could lead to the unavailability of the two reactors.

EDF's use of water from rivers as coolant is regulated by law to protect plant and animal life. It is obliged to reduce output during hot weather when water temperatures rise, or when river levels and the flow rate are low.

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