EDF to Release 6 GW of Hydropower Capacity Under EU Agreement

French utility EDF has agreed to make 6 gigawatts (GW) of its hydropower capacity available to the market as part of a deal reached between France and the European Union, according to recent announcements. The agreement is designed to increase competition in the French electricity market and provide greater access to renewable energy for independent suppliers.

Hydropower, which represents a major share of France’s clean energy mix, will be opened up to third-party operators under regulated terms, ensuring more players can benefit from its output.

EDF, which controls the majority of France’s hydro assets, will continue to operate the plants but will allocate a portion of their generation to the market. The move aligns with EU efforts to encourage energy market liberalisation while supporting the bloc’s transition towards low-carbon power. Hydropower is currently France’s second-largest source of electricity after nuclear, and expanding access to its capacity is expected to improve supply stability, especially during peak demand periods.