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French electricity giant Electricité de France (EDF) and the grid management authority RTE are exploring the development of a pioneering thermal power plant fueled by biofuel derived from used cooking oil. With an estimated investment of 550 million euros, the project is designed to bolster national electricity security during periods of peak consumption.
The proposed 'Sirius' power plant is slated for construction in Champagne-sur-Oise, located in the Val-d'Oise province. The facility will occupy a 73-hectare site that previously housed a coal-fired plant which operated from 1965 to 2005. Once operational, the plant will feature a capacity of approximately 650 MW, utilizing Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). This liquid biofuel is synthesized from waste feedstocks, including used cooking oil, animal fats, and non-food grade vegetable oils.
EDF has highlighted that the Sirius project would represent the first facility of its kind in continental Europe. It is specifically engineered to bridge supply gaps during high-demand intervals, such as during the winter months or when intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar see a drop in production. The plant is projected to run for roughly 150 hours annually and possesses the technical capability to reach full operational capacity in under 30 minutes.
According to technical specifications, the plant can generate enough electricity to power a city of 500,000 residents during peak hours. By transitioning to HVO, the facility aims to slash CO2 emissions by approximately 80% compared to conventional fuel oil-powered stations. To further mitigate the environmental footprint, fuel will be transported via the Oise River, requiring about 15 barge shipments per year. The architectural design includes a maximum chimney height of 35 meters and extensive surrounding greenery.
The project is currently undergoing community consultation. Should it succeed in the capacity tender scheduled for late 2027, the Sirius plant is expected to begin commercial electricity supply by the winter of 2031–2032.
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