Nuclear/heatwave : potential reduction in output at French nuclear plant Tricastin from 1 August 2026

Restrictions on nuclear power generation are likely to affect the Tricastin sites (Drôme, on the Rhône river) from 1 August 2026 due to forecasts of high temperatures on the River Rhône, EDF announced on 27 July 2026.

In order to cool their facilities, nuclear power stations draw water from the sea or rivers. This water is then discharged at a higher temperature than when it was drawn, either in liquid or gaseous form. During a prolonged period of drought or a heatwave, river levels are generally lower and their temperatures higher.

The Tricastin power station has four generating units, each with a capacity of 900 MW.