Energy and centralism in France: the example of nuclear power

Energy and centralism in France, The example of nuclear power. - Political power, particularly in a centralized country, necessitates maximum control over energy. In France, this is especially evident in the sector of electric power. 75 % of which is generated by nuclear power stations. With a central authority and a monopolistic company, the Commissariat a l'energie Atomique (C.E.A.) and electricite de France (E.D.F.), the state is able to run the whole sector from the nuclear fuel 'cycle' to production, transmission and distribution of electricity. For several years, there has been an overcapacity of nuclear power generation aimed at export as well as domestic markets. Politically, the dominance of the nuclear industry is assured: an effective opposition has not been able to establish itself. (author)