Grey electricity is standard “as-available” energy. It is purchased on the wholesale markets* or through the ARENH market*.
When acquired on the ARENH market, it is nuclear power.
When purchased on the wholesale markets, its origin is not specified. It may come from coal or fuel-oil power plants, cogeneration plants, renewable sources (if the associated Guarantees of Origin certificates have been sold separately), etc.
This choice is driven primarily by financial considerations, as it offers the lowest price.
Cours de bourse (Wholesale Markets)Energy can be purchased through two main mechanisms:
-Spot purchases for immediate delivery — EPEX Spot prices.
-Forward purchases for delivery over a future period — EEX prices.
Suppliers mainly use forward purchase mechanisms for 24- or 36-month contracts. They can lock in their purchase prices for up to 36 months, which helps secure costs.
ARENH
This mechanism stems from the French State’s commitment to the European Commission. It was established by the NOME Law (New Organisation of the Electricity Market).
Its purpose is to allow French suppliers to procure nuclear electricity from EDF under conditions set by the public authorities.
