Question:

The term "third generation" often used in connection with the EPR seems inappropriate to me, because it could alarm the public. The EPR grew out of a desire to harmonize the secondary technological choices of EDF and Siemens so as to come up with a reactor with the same design basis in Germany as in France. Akin to the 1300-1400 MW series, the 1700 MW EPR will operate in improved safety conditions.

Answer:

Technologically speaking, the EPR may not be revolutionary, but it does make significant improvements that justify its classification as "third generation". It is more powerful and more efficient, and it will generate electricity more cheaply than current reactors. It is also scheduled to operate 20 years longer. Moreover, it will be safer. The reactor containment building will be sturdier, with a double shell that can withstand the impact of a commercial aircraft. In the highly improbable event of an accident leading to core meltdown, the EPR has a corium recovery chamber where molten core materials can be contained and prevented from spreading to the environment.