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Introduced in the 70s after the oil shock, the time change was intended to reduce the electricity consumption of the French.
In 1976, the switch to summer time was announced following the oil crisis and the explosion in prices. “The idea was then to save time in natural light compared to artificial lighting”, explains journalist Frédérique Prabonnaud, on the set of 12/13. Does it works ? Experts from the French Environment and Energy Management Agency (ADEME) conducted a study to assess the impact of the time change on electricity consumption.
In 2009, savings of around 440 GWh, or the equivalent of the lighting consumption of around 800,000 households, were achieved. Also according to ADEME, in recent years, gains represent 0.07% of total electricity consumption. “A falling number”notes the journalist.