Question 12163 — energy and fuels

Summary

Ms. Élisabeth Toutut-Picard draws the attention of the Minister of State, Minister of Ecological and Inclusive Transition, to the future of hydroelectric concessions. France has nearly 400 hydroelectric concessions, 80% of which are held by EDF. Around twenty concessions have already expired and 150 will expire in 2023. In response to the formal notice from the European Commission of October 22, 2015, the Government would have proposed opening certain lots to competition. However, article 118 of the law of August 17, 2015 relating to the energy transition for green growth set new mechanisms for renewing concessions which make it possible to meet European requirements without abandoning their public nature: extensions subject to works, groupings by centroids, system of mixed economy companies hydroelectric power plants (SEMH). Hydroelectricity is a strategic sector which covers 12% of our electricity production and employs 25,000 people. The first source of renewable energy production, it also covers a real environmental issue. These facilities also play a crucial role in agricultural irrigation, low flow support and tourism. Finally, they contribute to safety in terms of flood management and provide a source of cooling water essential for nuclear safety. Opening concessions to competition would introduce risks to the country's energy sovereignty, control of production, safety of installations, local activity and employment as well as the public water service. It could also lead to an increase in electricity prices for consumers. She therefore wishes know the Government's intentions in this matter and whether it is studying alternative solutions to competitive bidding, such as the renewal mechanisms offered by the energy transition law, the service of general interest (SIG) or the possibility of transfer of concessions between historical operators.

Machine translation from French. The official text remains authoritative.

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