French Energy Unions Threaten Strike Over Employee Benefits
French energy unions have announced plans to strike on September 15 over a dispute with the government regarding employee benefits. The proposed changes would limit wage growth and cut access to discounted gas and electricity for workers in the sector.
The strike, which is set to last 24 hours, could disrupt gas supplies and impact electricity generation amid seasonally high wholesale prices. France is Europe's largest importer of liquefied natural gas, and its nuclear power plants provide around 70% of the country's electricity.
According to data from Reuters, strike notices have been filed at state-owned nuclear company EDF, Belgian gas-terminal operator Fluxys, and French gas-terminal operator Elengy. The unions are opposing a proposal by France's Court of Auditors to limit wage growth and cut employee benefits.