France’s energy mix comprises 67.1% nuclear, 20% renewable, 10% fossil fuels, and 3% others.

Over the past decade, France has seen a significant shift towards renewable energies. The share of renewable energy has doubled from 10% in 2012 to 20% in 2022, while the share of fossil fuels has declined from 15% in 2012 to 10% in 2022. This change has been driven by both national policies and EU directives, the closure of coal plants, and the growth in wind and solar power.

For the next ten years, the French government has set ambitious goals to increase the share of renewables and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. The goals for 2030 are as follows: the renewable share is to increase to around 40°% of the energy mix through wind and solar energy growth. Fossil fuels are to decrease to around 5% by phasing out coal and continuing the decline in oil with the rise of electric vehicles.

Government policies and incentives for renewable energy projects through tax credits and grants, EU regulations, technological advancements, and public demand for cleaner energy sources impact these trends.

To further accelerate the transition to renewable energy, the following policies are recommended: Enhancing the electrical grid to integrate renewable energy sources better and manage variability, increasing R&D investment to boost development in renewable technologies, storage solutions, and innovative grid technologies, and implementing stricter regulations to phase out fossil fuels by promoting the use of electric vehicles and ensuring that new buildings follow the zero-energy standards.

This Post was submitted by Climate Scorecard France Country Manager Camille Huret.