The threat of war in Ukraine coupled with the supply chain crunch is causing France to consider expanding its nuclear energy program. It will build as many as 14 nuclear reactors by 2050 — not just to resist natural gas shortages but also to battle climate change. Construction could begin in 2028.
Natural gas prices have spiked in Europe while Russia is amassing troops along its Ukrainian border, forcing Europe to potentially ban Russian natural gas. As for France, it wants to fall back on an energy source that is both carbon-free and reliable — one that has provided at least 70% of its electricity since the 1970s.