France’s nuclear power generation was reduced by about 6.3 gigawatts early on Monday as a prolonged heatwave forced state-owned utility EDF to scale back operations at eight reactors across the country. The reductions were required because high river temperatures limited the amount of cooling water that could be safely used under environmental regulations.
Two reactors, Golfech 2 and Bugey 3, were taken completely offline, while Saint Alban 1 and 2, Bugey 4 and 5, and Blayais 1 and 3 continued operating at reduced capacity. The curtailed output accounted for roughly 14% of France’s electricity demand during the morning, according to grid operator RTE.
Despite the reduced nuclear generation, France was expected to remain a net electricity exporter throughout Monday, with more than 10 gigawatts of power flowing to neighbouring countries. Spain was the only country expected to supply electricity to France, supported by strong solar and wind generation.
The heatwave is forecast to continue until at least the middle of the week, with temperatures expected to rise further across central and eastern France. Analysts say prolonged hot and dry conditions could trigger additional nuclear curtailments, including a planned reactor shutdown at the Chooz plant on Tuesday, while continuing to support higher spot electricity prices across Europe.