France announces that it will maintain its electricity exports to Italy. Thus, in a context of energy crisis, it reaffirms its commitment of “solidarity” with its neighbors.
France will not interrupt its electricity exports
This weekend, the Italian newspaper La Repubblica claimed that EDF was planning to interrupt its electricity exports for two years. The information was confirmed by a spokesman for the Italian Ministry of Ecological Transition.
In France, the Ministry of Energy Transition denies it:
“The French authorities deny this information and reaffirm their commitment to mutual electricity and gas solidarity with all our European neighbors.”
EDF also denies this information.
According to the Italian Ministry of Ecological Transition, the situation remains uncertain. According to a spokesperson, the difficulties encountered by the French nuclear fleet could pave the way for such a suspension. This one states:
“It’s obviously not certain that this will happen, but to be prepared, the department’s technicians have been working for months on different scenarios.”
Contributing to Europe’s supply
France has historically been a major player in electricity exports on a European scale. The country provides some 15% of its total energy production. According to Eurostat, in 2019, 5% of Italy’s annual consumption comes from France.
Nevertheless, this year, France has become a net importer of electricity. In fact, as nuclear power production is greatly reduced, it no longer produces enough. In addition, the level of nuclear production is at its lowest level in 30 years.
As a result, France has lost its position as the leading European exporter to Sweden.
Thus, the energy crisis threatens many European nations. All are looking for solutions to avoid a shortage this winter. For its part, Italy wants to save energy by reducing heating.
