Earthquake in Drôme-Ardèche: assessment of the reactors in the Rhône valley

Further to the earthquake recorded on 11 November 2019, EDF has continued to operate Bugey, Saint- Alban and Tricastin nuclear power plants. 

Initial inspections at Cruas-Meysse NPP have not highlighted any apparent damage. However, vibration was recorded requiring additional preventive testing. Erring on the side of caution, EDF has decided to suspend operation of Cruas-Meysse units 2, 3 and 4 on a temporary basis in order to perform these tests.

These units will be successively shut down from 18.00 this evening, apart from unit 1, which is already shut down for scheduled maintenance.
 
The Nuclear Safety Authority and Ardèche Prefecture have been informed of the situation.