.	Basic principles
•	Challenges and risks
•	Operation objectives
•	Definition of safety
•	Defense in depth
•	Three safety functions
•	Development of safety
•	Summary
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At the time of the world oil crisis in 1973, authorities in the French government became aware of the national energy dependence. France has little oil and French coal and gas reserves are nearly exhausted or uneconomical for use in power production. Additionally, the hydroelectric potential is almost fully exploited. Nuclear power was therefore chosen as the means of increasing French energy independence. Nuclear power plants have progressively replaced conventional power plants.

By 1993, nuclear power provided approximately 75% of French domestic electricity generation.

a) The risks for humans and the environment

The impact of nuclear power plants on humans and the environment must be minimized in all circumstances.

Like any other industrial activity, nuclear power generation involves risks. Nuclear reactors contain a large quantity of radioactive substances. These substances emit radiation which can have an effect on health:

• It represents a permanent hazard for operations and maintenance personnel
• Its accidental dispersal in the environment would cause a public health risk

The nuclear operating organization has the responsibility to control these risks.

On the other hand, nuclear power has had a positive effect on the environment. Since the 1970's, the appearance of acid rain and the discovery of the greenhouse effect due to the release of carbon dioxide have shown that nuclear power is in fact less polluting than conventional power sources. By opting for nuclear power, France has reduced emissions of sulfur oxides, nitrogen, carbon.

b) Cost

The public is unwilling to accept nuclear power without a cost advantage as shown in the USA example.

Since the first nuclear power plants were built, generation of power from other sources of energy has become more competitive due to improvements in technology (combined cycle gas-fired plants for instance).

The survival of nuclear power depends on its competitiveness with other means of generating electricity.

c) Availability

To avoid power outages, the grid must be reliable and available and the generating facilities must be capable of meeting the demand at all times. The nuclear power plants, which provide most of the power in France, are vital to energy availability for the customers.