Draft energy law of October 10: French government confirms role of nuclear power in energy mix

Brief

October 30, 2003

According to an October 10 draft of an energy law obtained by Agence France Press, "existing French nuclear power reactors should be replaced, in whole or in part, by a new fleet of reactors." The document explains that this option is designed to "maintain France's energy self-sufficiency and to keep low greenhouse gas production levels low and electric rates stable and moderate."

The draft law will determine the percentage of each source of energy in the country's energy mix for the next thirty years (renewables, fossil fuels, nuclear). It is expected to be released publicly in early November, presented to the Council of Ministers in late December, and debated by Parliament in early 2004.