1957
Founding of the PFARA
The development of the civil nuclear industry introduced unprecedented challenges for insurers. To meet these demands, nuclear risks were excluded from traditional insurance policies. Consequently, the French Nuclear Insurance Pool (PFARA) was founded as an association to pool the financial capacities of insurers ans reinsurers.
1960
Adoption of the Paris Convention
Developed under the auspices of the OECD, this international convention was adopted on July 29, 1960. It establishes the strict and channeled liability of the nuclear operator, who becomes liable for damage caused by a nuclear accident, regardless of fault. This liability, limited in both duration and amount, is subject to a mandatory financial security.
1968
Transposition of the Paris Convention into French Law
France incorporated these international obligations via the Law of October 30, 1968. This landmark text set the initial liability limits and a limitation period for victims’ compensation claims.
1969
Transition to an Economic Interest Grouping status
To support the industrialisation of the sector and further strengthen its operations, the PFARA adopted the legal status of an Economic Interest Grouping (GIE).
1995
Name change to Assuratome
The organisation updated its corporate and visual identity, transitioning to its current name, Assuratome.
2004
Revision of the Paris Convention
Signed on February 12, 2004, this protocol expands both the territorial scope of the Convention and the categories of compensable nuclear damage.
In addition to death, personal injury, and property damage, it now covers certain economic losses, the costs of reinstating a degraded environment, and the costs of preventive measures.
Furthermore, it strengthens the financial protection of victims by raising the liability amounts for operators.
In France, this liability can reach up to €700 million per accident.
The limitation period is extended to thirty years for death and personal injury, and remains set at ten years for other nuclear damage.
2015
Implementation of the 2004 Protocol into French Legislation
The Act of August 17, 2015 relating to the Energy Transition for Green Growth adapted the French third-party nuclear liability regime with a view to the entry into force of the 2004 Protocol.
This framework is codified in Articles L. 597-1 et seq. of the Environmental Code, which determine the national enforcement measures of the Paris Convention, the Brussels Supplementary Convention, and their additional protocols.
The guarantee amount was thus increased to €700 million by anticipation as of 2016.
2022
Enforcement of the 2004 Revised Protocol
2027
Celebrating 70 years
70 years of dedicated support to Civil Nuclear Energy