PARIS -(Dow Jones)- French state-controlled power utility Electricite de France SA (EDF.FR) Tuesday said it has agreed to withdraw its opposition to the merger between U.S. utilities Exelon Corp. (EXC) and Constellation Energy (CEG) as they have both agreed to maintain the operational autonomy of Constellation's nuclear power unit in which EDF owns a stake. "We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Exelon that protects Constellation Nuclear's operational independence," EDF's Chief Financial Officer Thomas Piquemal said in a statement. "We look forward to welcoming Exelon as a partner in this important joint venture." Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, which operates five nuclear plants in Maryland and New York, is 50.01% owned by Constellation Energy and 49.99% owned by EDF. -By Inti Landauro, Dow Jones Newswires; +33 1 4017 1740; inti.landauro@dowjones.com
