Worldwide electricity production generates CO2 emissions when it is based on fossil fuels. We have a conviction: as an easy-to-use product, electricity can be an effective tool for decarbonizing our economies.
Hydropower: one of EDF’s priorities for the generation of carbon-free electricity
Making carbon-free electricity a reality
The production of carbon-free electricity is based on mature technologies we know well: nuclear and renewable energies, including hydropower. Our industrial strategy is clearly based on the priority development of nuclear power and renewable energies: hydraulic, wind and biomass energy. This is why we are engaged in implementing these solutions, taking into account the specific contexts of each of the countries in which we operate. In parallel, we are certain that, in a tense energy context, it is necessary to reconcile low-carbon centralized and decentralized energies. Testament to this are our projects in the development of new decentralized energies integrated in buildings, such as thermal or photovoltaic solar power, biomass and heat pumps. We are also committed to the research and development of new and very promising renewable technologies such as deep geothermal energy and tidal energy.
Electricity, a simple way to "decarbonize" the economy
Carbon-free electricity can easily be substituted for fossil fuel-based generation methods. This is already the case for domestic uses such as heating (for example, using heat pumps), public transport (such as trams) and individual energy requirements (with rechargeable hybrid cars or electric cars), and even for industry (with the development of induction). For us, this transfer strategy is inseparable from a strategy to manage energy consumption, making flexible electricity use possible. Our position: less electricity per usage and more uses of electricity.
For an "energy-climate contribution" tax
Our group is favorable to an "energy-climate" tax on fossil fuel energies, given their respective contributions to greenhouse gas emissions. This is why we have actively participated in the European Commission's work to introduce CO2 emission permits. Thus, like other industrial sectors, since 2005 the electricity sector has been partially subject to a tax on CO2 emissions from production plants, via a system of quotas which we must buy in full in 2013. Until now, other energy forms (gas and fuel oil) have escaped the quota system, even though they contribute to the largest share of CO2 emissions. This is why we are favorable to the introduction of the carbon tax, which will restore the balance.
Worldwide, electricity represents 40% of CO2 emissions.
But in France, electricity only represents 10% of CO2 emissions thanks to the use of carbon-free energies.