EDF report on nuclear fleet modulation and functioning of the merit order at the heart of the EU electricity market

Question for written answer E-000671/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Jordan Bardella (PfE)

The EU electricity market is based on the merit order mechanism, under which intermittent renewable energy is given priority over dispatchable sources such as nuclear.

A report published by EDF in February 2026[1] on the modulation of France's nuclear fleet highlights the limitations of this mechanism. It points out that prioritising so-called non-dispatchable energy sources, which often play only a minor role in stabilising the grid, may destabilise the electricity system and make it necessary to curtail dispatchable generation which is essential to security of supply. The blackout that hit the Iberian Peninsula on 28 April 2025 during a period of high intermittent production and low demand illustrates these issues.

Meanwhile, some Member States have recently taken steps to support fossil-based generation capacity, including gas-fired power stations, in order to safeguard their energy security and industrial competitiveness.

In light of the above, the lack of flexibility in the current framework calls into question the ability of the Member States to maintain low-carbon electricity mixes that are stable and competitive.

Can the Commission confirm that a Member State may be authorised to adapt competition rules and energy objectives in order to safeguard its energy sovereignty and nuclear fleet?

Submitted: 17.2.2026

• [1] https://www.edf.fr/sites/groupe/files/2026-02/2026_02_16_ETUDE_MODULATION.pdf.