RTE News & Analysis

France Transformer Malfunction Affects 100,000 Due to 40C Heat

On 23 June, a transformer malfunction in Ergué-Gabéric, France, due to extreme temperatures around 40C left over 100,000 people without power. This incident was classified as 'heat related' by local authorities. Prior to the failure, RTE stated there were 'no concerns' regarding electricity availability for the summer. The impact of extreme temperatures on electric infrastructure is notable, causing a reduction in efficiency, especially in gas-fired power stations and solar output as temperatures rise above certain thresholds.