France nuclear plant accident injures two

France's oldest nuclear power plant suffered a steam leak today, Agence France-Presse reported. About 50 firefighters were sent to the Fessenheim nuclear power plant in northeastern France, and "two people were slightly burnt through their gloves," a spokeswoman from France utility giant Electricite de France (EDF), the company that supplies power, told the AFP. 

The spokeswoman downplayed the accident. "No fire broke out," she told Reuters. "Steam escaped during a maintenance operation which set off the fire alarm." 

More from GlobalPost: When the BRICs Crumble 

But the accident has nonetheless renewed calls for closure of the Fessenheim plant, the Associated Press reported. France relies on nuclear energy more than any other nation.

This particular plant has been especially controversial due to its location. The plant is scheduled to close in 2017 because of its vulnerability to earthquakes and floods, according to the AFP.

Do you support journalism that strengthens our democracy?

At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.

Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!