The use of fresh surface water abstractions for electricity production (cooling only) in France has shown a general decline from 2013 to 2023, with a 2023 level of 13.35 billion cubic meters. The data reveal a consistent downward trend, with a year-on-year decrease of approximately 2% in recent years and a five-year CAGR of -3.61%. The projected figures anticipate a continuing reduction, reaching 11.9 billion cubic meters by 2028, with a forecasted five-year CAGR of -1.84% and an overall decrease of roughly 9% from 2023.

Potential factors contributing to this trend include:

Increased energy efficiency and shifts in electricity production methods.
Technological advancements in power plant cooling systems reducing water dependency.
Growing environmental regulations and policies targeting water conservation.
Expanding adoption of renewable energy sources reducing reliance on traditional cooling techniques.