Seres Technologies

The Nuclear Industry

With its 56 reactors producing 70% of national electricity, the French civil nuclear industry is a key driver of independent energy. However, this power generation brings with it major challenges, including upgrading of the existing fleet, new nuclear energy and the integration of renewable energies. 

The nuclear defence industry encompasses all activities related to nuclear deterrence, naval propulsion and the safety and security of military facilities. It rests primarily on the manufacture, maintenance and upgrading of the nuclear reactors installed on nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), attack submarines (SNAs) and aircraft carriers (PA-CDG/PANG). This strategic industry ensures the independence and credibility of national deterrence, while mobilising a high level of technological, scientific and industrial expertise. It also contributes towards the country’s strategic independence and geopolitical stability, through the overarching control of the military nuclear industry.

Challenges faced by the nuclear industry

The nuclear industry faces several challenges: upgrading of the existing fleet with the ongoing improvement of safeguarding systems, incorporating feedback and learnings from major accidents. 

 

The second challenge is the decarbonisation of energy, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions mainly emitted through the burning of fossil fuels. Within this framework, nuclear energy plays a key role, as it facilitates the production of large quantities of electricity without the emission of CO₂ while in operation. Nuclear energy isn’t limited to the production of low-carbon electricity: it can also contribute significantly to the decarbonisation of heat, particularly in urban heat networks. 

 

Research reactors play a fundamental role in scientific, technological and industrial advancement in the nuclear industry. Unlike the power reactors used to generate electricity, their main objective is to serve experimentation platforms. They allow us to study the behaviour of materials under irradiation, test new combustibles and train nuclear industry technicians and engineers. These reactors are also vital for the production of medical radioisotopes, mainly used for diagnosing and treating certain diseases. What’s more, they contribute towards innovation by aiding the design of new-generation reactors that are safer and more efficient, with longer lifespans.

 

Seres Technologies supports strategic players in the nuclear industry by managing risks and working on innovative projects, including in particular the design of the small-scale, modular Calogena reactor, intended for city heating.

The Seres Technologies Group expertise in the nuclear industry

The Seres Technologies Group has been working for almost two decades across the full life cycle of civil and defence facilities, from design to execution and subsequent operation. In the civil nuclear industry, the Seres Technologies Group has been working on major projects such as new fleet power reactors (EPR 2), SMRs (Calogena), experimental reactors (RJH) and fuel and waste treatment and storage facilities. In the nuclear defence industry, the Seres Technologies Group works mainly on the reactors of surface vessels and submarines, improving the safety and performance of strategic infrastructure.

Expert opinion

« Our priority is to optimise nuclear safety by balancing technical precision and innovation. Each project provides an opportunity to build our expertise and contribute towards a safe energy future. »
Adrien CARTONNET
Head of the Nuclear Safety Division at Seres Technologies

The standards and regulatory norms that the Seres Technologies Group applies in the nuclear industry

The Seres Technologies Group has several certifications and qualifications, standing testament to its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality services to its customers.

 

General fields 

  • ISO 9001 (Quality Management System)
  • ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) 
  • ISO 19443 (Nuclear Quality and Safety)
  • MASE (Hygiene, Safety and Environment) 
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Nuclear field

  • ISO 19443 (Nuclear Quality and Safety)
  • Radiological protection (CEFRI)
  • OTU qualification (EDF supplier) 
  • NBI orders (Civil Nuclear)
  • IANID order (Nuclear Defence) 
  • Standard IEC 61513 (Nuclear power plants – Instrumentation and control important for safety – General systems requirements)

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Our teams are here to listen, address your needs, and support you from design through to completion.

Example of a project carried out by the Seres Technologies Group in the nuclear sector

Unlock your potential at Seres Technologies

Joining Seres Technologies means you’ll be joining an international company that operates on a human scale, where a positive, collaborative-focused culture fosters a stimulating working environment. Thanks to the diversity of our projects across a wide range of sectors, each employee has the opportunity to take on ambitious technological and human challenges, developing their skills and contributing to major innovations.

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FAQs

Seres Technologies uses advanced methodologies to ensure the safety of Base Nuclear Installations (BNIs) and Secret Base Nuclear Installations (SBNIs). Seres Technologies drafts and analyses Safety Option Files (DOS) and Creation Authorisation Applications (DAC), while integrating the relevant innovations to ensure regulatory compliance.

Pressurised Water Reactors (PWRs) represent the majority of the French nuclear fleet. Seres Technologies conducts in-depth safety studies, risk analyses and prepares maintenance plans to improve the safety and lifespan of facilities.

Backed by its experience in the nuclear sphere, Seres Technologies draws on its expertise in risk management and complex system engineering to support Calogena in designing its SMR, notably its Preliminary Design/Engineering phase, its Detailed Design/Engineering phase and execution.