Events that set everything in motion (1/5)
In the heart of France, nestled on the banks of the Loire, the Chinon Nuclear Power Plant made history on September 16, 1962, when its reactor, EDF1, went critical. Pioneering the way for nuclear electricity production in France, this event marked a significant milestone.
Under the leadership of Edmond Ventre, the Chinon power plant successfully coupled its turbine to the grid on June 14, 1963. The moment the control rods stopped climbing in the reactor, a chain reaction was initiated, with uranium atoms splitting to release neutrons. This was the first delivery of nuclear kWh by Electricité de France (EDF).
Jean-Jacques Martin, a key engineer involved in the commissioning and early operations of the Chinon plant, recalled the event in the control room as a moment of emotion. Martin, who was also in charge of radiation protection training at the plant, witnessed the crowd's excitement as they watched the real moment of the chain reaction.
The Chinon reactor is protected by a 55-meter diameter metal sphere, ensuring safety measures were in place during its operation. However, no new information about its current status was provided.
The Civaux Nuclear Power Plant, a separate facility, has recently been placed under "enhanced" surveillance. No specific details about this surveillance were given.
Nuclear electricity had previously been produced in France, and the industry has continued to grow. Areva, a French nuclear company, secured a significant contract with an American nuclear champion. The graphite-gas line, which had been under experimentation at Marcoule and Bugey for seven years prior, played a crucial role in this development.
It's important to note that the Tricastin Nuclear Power Plant, a separate location, was the site of a commando operation by Greenpeace. The status of the Tricastin, Marcoule, and Bugey power plants was not disclosed in the provided information.
As the world moves towards energy transition, the nuclear solution is being considered as part of the mix. The Chinon Nuclear Power Plant, with its rich history and pioneering role in France's nuclear energy sector, continues to be a significant player in this transition.
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