Will Alstom drives be nuclear powered?
The future of Alstom`s drives and PLC operations is uncertain following the decision by the troubled group to sell off its Transmission & Distribution business, which includes the drives and controls activities.
The front-runner to buy the T&D business is thought to be the state-owned French nuclear power agency, Areva. It is not known whether Areva would want to keep the drives and PLC activities — its main interest is in Alstom`s power transmission operations.
Last month, Alstom announced plans to halve its 10,000-strong UK workforce within two years. It plans to close its Birmingham railway plant and to turn its remaining UK operations into a non-exporting service business.
The French Government is backing a £2bn rescue package for the ailing group, but this proposal has met stiff opposition and objections from the European Union.
In a separate move, Pierre Bilger, Alstom`s chief executive for 12 years until March this year, has said he will waive his rights to a €4.1m severance package.