France, recognized for its expertise in low-carbon electricity production, is experiencing a significant rebound in its electricity production in 2024. Thanks to massive investments in nuclear and renewable energies, it has not only reached a level record production, but also knew how to profit from it on the European market.
Electricity production in 2024: a return to the top
In 2024, France produced approximately 530 TWh (terawatt hours) of electricityconsolidating its position as the leading European exporter. This performance marks a turning point after a difficult period in 2022, where nuclear production had fallen to 279 TWh due to technical problemsforcing the country to import electricity. The recovery was supported by the return to service of several reactors and the increase in renewable production capacity.
In addition to being profligate, French electricity production remains one of the least CO2 emitting in Europe. In 2024, the country’s energy mix made it possible to maintain average emissions of around 35 g of CO2 per kWh (kilowatt hour), a figure well below the European average of around 200 g/kWh.
This performance is mainly due to the dominance of nuclear power. The latter produces 12 g of CO2 per kWh taking into account the entire life cycle. As for wind and solar power, they are between 5 and 20 g of CO2/kWh. France’s average CO2 emissions are, however, increased by complementary gas power plants. Although they are used less and less, they produce around 400 g of CO2/kWh.
In comparison, Germany remains one of the largest emitters of CO2 in Europe for its energy production. In 2024, German energy production still depends largely on coal and gas power plants, major sources of emissions. On average, CO2 emissions linked to electricity production in Germany are around 400 to 450 g of CO2 per kWh, more than ten times the French average.
This situation stems from the German decision to gradually phase out nuclear power from 2011, a choice which led to an increased dependence on fossil fuels to compensate for the missing production. Although Germany has accelerated its investments in wind and solar, the transition remains complex due to intermittent periods when these sources are insufficient to meet energy demand.
Nuclear and renewables, promising resources
Nuclear production represents approximately 340 to 360 TWh in 2024, or nearly 68% of total production. Nuclear energy remains the backbone of the French energy mix, providing stability and continuous production. Its production is relatively economical, with an average cost estimated around 42 to 50 euros per MWh (megawatt hour). These costs include maintenance, waste management and investments necessary for the safety of power plants.
Renewable sources, including wind and solar, produced around 140 TWh, helping to diversify sources of supply and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In 2024, the average cost of onshore wind power will be around 50 to 70 euros per MWh, while solar oscillates between 40 and 60 euros per MWhdepending on the sunshine conditions and the size of the installations. Although these costs are higher than those of nuclear power, they have decreased in recent years thanks to technological advances.
Electricity exported by France is sold on the European market at a price that varies depending on demand and fluctuations in supply. In 2024, the average sales price of French electricity on the European market will fluctuate around 78 to 110 euros per MWh. This figure can rise during periods of high demand, particularly in winter, when electricity prices often peak due to the increased needs of neighboring countries.
The revenue generated by these exports is essential for EDF and public finances. At an average selling price of 90 euros per MWh, the export of 90 TWh could bring in around 8.1 billion euros to Francethus supporting the modernization of infrastructure and the financing of the energy transition.
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