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Nuclear Production in Convalescence

French nuclear production is approaching the 30GW mark, a few days behind schedule.

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French nuclear production is approaching the 30GW mark, a few days behind schedule. The situation of the French nuclear fleet, of which 24 of the 56 reactors are currently shut down, is proving to be decisive as winter approaches. A mild October allows demand to be regulated, however, the Minister of the Economy reminds us of the 50GW target by January.

Relaunch of French nuclear power

French nuclear production relies on a rapid return to service of the reactors, becoming a priority for EDF. Bruno Lemaire, Minister of the Economy, adds that the operator should respect deadlines for the revival of the French nuclear fleet. He says the company will have to rely on the skills and commitment of its employees to reach the 50GW target.

EDF must restart French nuclear production before the end of the year. Thus, the capacity generated will be higher than the 50GW of the early January peak. A total of five units are expected to return to service by early 2023.

A favorable October

The mild temperatures in October helped keep demand and energy prices under control. The price of electricity on the European market dropped from €381.61/MWh on October 6 to €230/MWh on October 11. In addition, RTE estimates that temperatures on October 18 will be 6 degrees above national averages.

November contractual rates are stable at €770/MWh as of October 11. A first estimate at the beginning of the month predicted more than €1000/MWh. On the other hand, December prices peak at €1205/MWh in anticipation of falling temperatures.

A worrying situation

RTE expects periods of tension on the network this winter at around 95GW due to cold spells. On average, French annual nuclear production will reach a historic low of 280 to 300TW according to EDF estimates. However, two reactors, are likely to supply the network, every week, by the end of 2022.

The nuclear production currently generates only 215TW. The October average was 26GW, below the usual 31GW. In addition, the strikes delay the restart of the reactors while reducing production.

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