GazelEnergie, part of the Czech energy group EPH, is exploring the possibility of converting the Émile Huchet power plant (647 MW) in the Moselle department from coal to gas, instead of the previously planned biomass conversion, according to Enerdata, reported Bioenergy Insight.
The conversion to biomass was initially estimated to cost €100 million, while switching to gas would require about €110 million. However, both options are significantly less expensive than constructing a new power plant.
Transitioning to gas would allow the facility to generate electricity more efficiently during peak demand periods, which occur about 300 to 700 hours annually, replacing the existing coal-based system.
There are already gas connections in proximity to the site, where TotalEnergies operates an 880 MW gas-fired plant.
Currently, Émile Huchet is one of only two coal-powered plants remaining in France.
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