French Grid Keeps Nuclear Reactors Online Despite Solar Surge

France’s grid operator is keeping extra nuclear reactors online to keep the system stable despite strong solar power generation, contributing to a supply surplus and deeply discounted electricity prices.

Electricite de France SA has been asked by grid operator RTE to keep seven nuclear power plants operating from May 16 until May 23 to help keep the system stable in the southwestern part of the country, according to notices on EDF’s website. They will operate at a minimum level because of network constraints.