French electricity consumption increased by 1.7% in 2021 to 468 TWh, driven by the economic recovery, according to the French power transmission system operator (TSO) RTE. The consumption of the industrial sector grew by 8% compared to 2020, with a strong increase in the steel industry (+20%) whereas the automotive industry remained behind. Power generation increased by 4.5% to reach 522.9 TWh (which remains 2.7% below its 2019 level), including 69% of nuclear. Nearly 2.7 GW of solar panels were installed in 2021, contributing to a 13% rise in solar PV power generation. However, unfavorable weather conditions reduced hydropower and wind power generation by 5% and 7%, respectively, cutting total renewable generation. Thermal power generation slightly increased in 2021 (+3%), but remained 8% below its 2019 level. France remained Europe's leading exporter of electricity, with higher exports and imports (87 TWh and 44 TWh, respectively).