France has agreed to issue state-owned EDF with a subsidised loan covering at least half the construction costs of six new nuclear reactors, with a final investment decision expected in 2026.

President Emmanuel Macron’s office said on 17 March that the framework agreement is based on a subsidised government loan covering at least half of the construction costs and a contract for difference (CfD)* on nuclear production at a maximum price of €100/MWh in 2024.

Negotiations between EDF and the state over financing are expected to be finalised in the “coming weeks”, the statement said. Details of the agreement will then be sent to the European Commission for approval.