# French energy sector labor strikes > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/french-energy-sector-labor-strikes > Updated: 2026-09-15T19:17:30.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. On September 15, 2026, French electricity and gas workers initiated large-scale industrial action to protest government reforms to the ‘tarif agent’, a preferential electricity rate provided to sector employees and retirees. Initial reports focused on the Gravelines nuclear power plant, where approximately 80% of staff participated in the strike. Unions, including CGT, FO, and CFE-CGC, argued that proposed increases in taxation and social security contributions on this benefit would cause a significant loss of purchasing power. As the situation developed, the scope of the strike was clarified to include broader participation across major companies, with strike rates reaching 65% at EDF and 63% at Engie. This resulted in a power reduction of 7.9 gigawatts, roughly equivalent to the output of eight nuclear reactors. While consumer supply remained unaffected, unions warned of further escalation and demanded a meeting with the Prime Minister by October 2 if their demands are not met. The government has stated its intention to ensure the benefit complies with legal fiscal requirements while attempting to preserve it. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-15: French energy workers strike over preferential electricity rates French energy workers at EDF and Engie held a massive strike over proposed reforms to their preferential energy rates, causing a 7.9 gigawatt drop in power production. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/french-energy-workers-strike-over-preferential-electricity-rates ### 2026-09-15: Gravelines nuclear plant workers strike over electricity benefits About 80% of workers at France's Gravelines nuclear plant went on strike to protect preferential electricity rates for employees following proposed tax increases on the benefit. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gravelines-nuclear-plant-workers-strike-over-electricity-benefits --- Cite as: French energy sector labor strikes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/french-energy-sector-labor-strikes