LNW-GW Joint
Veteran Member
I would imagine the larger loading gauge gives more room for equipment and probably reduces costs. I'm not aware the French have been doing much in the way of electrification of existing routes, though they have been building new railways.
They have been continuously electrifying existing routes, often in conjunction with new TGV lines or extensions, so that TGVs can run through.
Most of Brittany for instance, and Alsace.