Eiffage, SPIE Nucléaire & ABC Sign contract for the main diesel backup generators

Eiffage, through its subsidiary Eiffage Énergie Systèmes (mandatary), SPIE Nucléaire and ABC, recently signed the contract with EDF to supply and install the main diesel backup generators for the projects of six EPR2-type nuclear reactors. The contract is worth more than €900 million in total.

The contract includes the design, approval, manufacturing, installation, testing and commissioning of 24 10 MWe diesel backup generators for the six EPR2 units project, which will operate in pairs on three sites: Penly, Gravelines and Bugey. Each unit will incorporate four backup generators (three main and one for maintenance), their auxiliary electromechanical equipment, ventilation systems in the generator halls, and fire suppression systems.

The consortium’s project takes into account EDF’s equipment standardisation and replication requirements in relation to the new French nuclear programme.

The design phase will begin this year. The implementation is expected to take 17 years. At its peak period, this project will involve almost 350 people on each of the three sites and will generate 80,000 hours dedicated to social employment and jobs for people with disabilities.

The Eiffage group secured the civil engineering works contract for the first two EPR2-type reactors at Penly in November 2023, and this new contract shows the ability of the Group to execute large-scale projects in the pursuit of decarbonisation and energy sovereignty for France.

The engine manufacturer ABC will supply the generating sets with frame and alternator, with its subsidiary OMTD taking responsibility for installation and on-site testing. ABC had previously supplied EDF with emergency diesel generators for the 900 and N4 units.

SPIE Nucléaire is proud to be supporting these upgrades to France’s low-carbon electricity production capacity. For this contract, SPIE will be contributing all its expertise in ventilation systems, pipework and fire protection systems.