Macron: "There is no need to panic" about possible power outages in France

French President Emmanuel Macron said there was no reason to worry about possible power outages this winter, but called on citizens to reduce energy consumption and called on state company EDF to restart nuclear reactors to prevent outages in the event of cold weather.

In an interview with French television station TF1 recorded during his state visit to the United States last week, Macron denied that mismanagement of EDF's program to restart nuclear reactors was the reason behind the risk of blackouts.

"First of all, let's be clear: don't panic! It makes sense for the government to prepare for the most difficult circumstances, which could mean cutting off electricity for a few hours a day if we don't have enough energy," Macron said.

EDF faced an unprecedented number of power outages in its nuclear reactors following maintenance work, which reduced nuclear plant production to the lowest level in 30 years.

This comes as Europe seeks to find an alternative to Russian gas supplies, which Moscow cut off in response to EU sanctions related to its war with Ukraine on February 24.

The head of the Energy Regulatory Authority (RTE) said on Thursday that France could face blackouts "for a few days" this winter, and that the government had begun notifying local authorities of ways to manage the situation should that happen.

"These are imaginary scenarios, but if we all adhere to the moderation plan presented by the prime minister a few months ago, and significantly reduce our consumption by ten percent from normal levels... and if EDF continues its efforts... then we will be able to pass this period," Macron said. Even if December and January are cold."

French media ran reports on how to prepare for power outages, suggesting buying candles, unplugging refrigerators and freezers, and charging mobile phones.

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