French electricity consumption rose by 4% to 5% in June and July compared to the same months in 2023, according to RTE, the national electricity transmission system operator. This increase was mainly due to heatwaves that swept the country, leading to higher use of air conditioning and other cooling systems. The rise in consumption marks a return to levels seen between 2014 and 2019, before a decline during the pandemic and the energy crisis of 2022. Despite the challenges posed by the heat, which affected nuclear and hydroelectric power production, France remained a major electricity exporter. Thomas Veyrenc, director general of RTE, stated that there was no physical risk to the electricity supply during the summer, unlike in 2022 when energy shortages were a concern. However, electricity market prices have risen due to higher gas prices, which are linked to conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. These prices are still significantly lower than they were in 2022, and France enjoys a price advantage over its neighbors, allowing it to continue exporting electricity. Nuclear power production remained stable, with high availability at EDF power plants helping to offset the effects of heat and drought, which caused some plants to shut down or reduce output. Hydroelectric production, however, was the second lowest in the past 50 years, trailing only 2022, due to the ongoing drought. On the other hand, solar power production saw a notable increase, especially in July, which was exceptionally sunny. The electricity transmission network faced challenges from both extreme heat and wildfires, which posed a major threat to infrastructure. These issues led to several preventive power outages to avoid damage to the system. Despite these challenges, France managed to maintain a stable electricity supply and continue its role as a significant exporter of electricity to neighboring countries.