This transition to a variable tariff, which comes at a time when certain fixed-price contracts are ending, is part of a new commercial strategy for EDF, now constrained by the end of the regulated sales tariff (TRV) for professionals and certain individuals.
The measure mainly concerns individual customers who have subscribed to a fixed-price market offer that expires this summer. If they do not choose a new offer within the given timeframe, EDF will switch them by default to a so-called “Vert Électrique” offer, indexed to wholesale prices. A change that could have significant consequences on the bill.
A “variable” tariff: but variable how?
Unlike fixed-price offers, which guarantee a stable cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) throughout the duration of the contract, the variable tariff evolves according to the wholesale electricity market. More specifically, the offer EDF intends to direct these 1.6 million customers towards is based on monthly price indexation. In other words, the amount paid will change every month, according to fluctuations observed on energy exchanges, such as Epex Spot.
This can be advantageous when electricity prices are falling, but the opposite is also true: in the event of market tension or peak consumption, the bill can rise without warning. The year 2022, marked by the energy crisis linked to the war in Ukraine, demonstrated how brutal these fluctuations can be. At the time, wholesale prices had increased tenfold in a few months!
How much will it actually cost?
According to initial estimates and simulations carried out by independent comparison sites, the “Vert Électrique” offer could cost an average household around 35 euro cents per kWh in August 2025, compared to around 22 cents for the current regulated tariff. The difference is therefore far from insignificant: it would represent a potential increase of 50 to 60% in electricity consumption alone, excluding subscriptions. Of course, this figure may vary downwards or upwards depending on market developments in the coming months, but the uncertainty is real.
Another important point: this offer includes a portion of electricity from renewable sources, which may appeal to some customers who are sensitive to environmental issues. But for others, the priority remains the budget, and the volatility of the tariff is a source of concern.
Why this automatic switch?
EDF justifies this transition by the fact that some contracts are expiring and a choice must be made to avoid a power outage. The company indicates that it has sent information letters and emails to the affected customers, inviting them to choose a new offer. But in the absence of a response, this variable price formula will be applied by default. A decision that raises questions, particularly in terms of informed consent, while not all customers are necessarily familiar with the intricacies of the energy market.
UFC-Que Choisir and other consumer associations are already warning of the risks of this automatic switch, deemed too discreet and potentially penalizing. They strongly recommend that customers check the status of their contract and consider alternatives before the fateful date of July 15.
What to do if you are affected?
There is still time to act! EDF has set up a dedicated space on its website allowing everyone to check the status of their contract and change their offer if they wish. Other competing suppliers also offer fixed or hybrid offers, sometimes more competitive. Changing energy supplier remains free, without disconnection, and can be done at any time.
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