Electricite de France (EDF) has been a pivotal player in the energy transition, establishing a strong presence in China for over four decades. Starting with the Daya Bay Nuclear Power Plant in the mid-1980s, EDF has emerged as one of China's largest foreign investors in electricity generation.
A landmark moment in Sino-French cooperation came in 2019 when French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese leader Xi Jinping signed an agreement for the Dongtai offshore wind power project. Located in Jiangsu Province, this is China's first Sino-foreign offshore wind farm, jointly operated by EDF and China Energy Investment Corporation. This project exemplifies EDF's commitment to pioneering industrial collaboration and embracing emerging technologies.
Since expanding its operations in 2016, EDF has diversified its portfolio to include renewables, energy distribution, low carbon energy services, and innovative digital solutions. The company has also ventured into electric mobility, learning valuable lessons from both successes and setbacks. Over the past eight years, EDF has witnessed China's rapid transformation, especially in electricity market reforms and the exponential growth of renewable energy in line with China's carbon reduction goals.
EDF's partnership with leading Chinese energy firms like China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) and China Datang Corporation (CDT), as well as collaborations with academic institutions such as Xi'an Jiaotong University, underscores the mutual benefits of stable regulations and sound contracting. These alliances are opening doors to new business opportunities and fostering high-quality cooperation that drives innovation and sustainable energy development.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
