Employees of Électricité de France (EDF), one of France’s largest energy providers, are currently on strike to protect a long-standing benefit that allows them to pay significantly less for electricity and gas than the general public, even after retirement. This benefit, known as a "preferred energy rate," has been in place for 80 years and has become a point of contention between the company, its workers, and the government. In 2024, the cost of this benefit to EDF and its subsidiary Enedis was estimated at 733 million euros, with costs reaching up to 1 billion euros the previous year. The French government is now examining whether this benefit should continue, citing concerns over its financial impact. Sébastien Bor, an EDF employee with nearly 30 years of experience, said he pays about 15 euros per month for his electricity, with a slight increase in winter. He emphasized that he does not consider himself to be exploiting the benefit, but rather using it as intended. According to the unions, the benefit is crucial for maintaining the purchasing power of both active workers and retirees. They argue that if the benefit is removed, individual employees could lose over 1,000 euros per year, which would have a significant impact on their household budgets. Amélie Henri, a central union delegate at EDF, called the potential loss of this benefit "unacceptable," highlighting its historical significance and its role in supporting employees’ financial stability. The unions have been vocal in their opposition to any changes that might affect this long-standing perk, which they view as a necessary part of the company's social responsibility. Since Tuesday morning, EDF employees have been mobilizing across France, with approximately half of the workforce participating in strikes by midday. The government is keen to avoid a new wave of social unrest, particularly as other sectors are also experiencing mobilizations over issues such as rising fuel prices and administrative pressures. The situation highlights the broader tensions between workers' rights and the economic challenges faced by public utilities in France.