What do the French really think about renewable energy?

In this article, we examine the government's vision and that of the French public regarding renewable energy. While political rhetoric is hesitant, the numbers don't lie! The French are in favor of developing renewable energy and are making this clear. This gap between policy and reality highlights a real disconnect between government decisions and public opinion. Let's analyze this paradox together, a paradox that continues to fuel public debate!

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Is France changing course on energy and climate policy?

On April 26, 2024, Daniel Gremillet, Dominique Estrosi Sassone, and Bruno Retailleau submitted a bill intended to update (again, you might say…) France's major energy guidelines for 2035, in line with European commitments and the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Did you know?

Rejected by the National Assembly on June 24, 2025, the Gremillet bill will be reviewed by the end of September, before a possible joint committee meeting expected in mid-October.

But what about that? Does this law update really address this?

This bill sets out France's major energy choices for 2035, which are based in particular on updating the multi-year energy program (PPE), as well as simplifying and protecting consumers. The goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 is driven by new principles: a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030; a phase-out of fossil fuels (-45% within 5 years); an increase in the share of decarbonized energy in final energy consumption by 2030 (at least 58%) with the revival of nuclear power (27 GW of new capacity by 2050); and an improvement in the share of renewable energy in decarbonized electricity production (560 TWh by 2030, including 200 TWh). (Renewable Energy). Source

What do you consider the most urgent priorities in energy policy? The debate is open in the comments!

François Bayrou relegates ecology to the back burner in 2026!

Since 2017, Emmanuel Macron has been hammering home the point that environmental health is THE “priority of his five-year term”… Except this year, apparently! His Prime Minister, François Bayrou, has just announced a freeze on investments in the ecological transition for 2026. Not stopping there, he is also suggesting the reorganization, or even the elimination, of “unproductive agencies that scatter the State's efforts, including, for example, the elimination of the French Agency for Organic Farming (Agence Bio) and the Coastal Conservancy.

Did you know?

Even though this reorganization would save up to 10 billion While the budget of euros (according to the Prime Minister's office) is not universally approved, it is not. Left-wing parties are considering a motion of no confidence against the government this fall! Source

Judging by the politicians' speeches, it's clear that the environment is not a priority for the government. However, the climate emergency cannot be put on hold. That's why, Enerfip is mobilizing by strengthening its actions and making its voice heard, notably through Julien Hostache, President and co-founder of Enerfip. He speaks in this post to promote collective power and the possibility of choosing to invest in meaningful projects. Optimistic, he refuses to give in to this general resignation and encourages everyone to act to build a fairer and cleaner energy model.

And meanwhile, solar power shines brightly on Europe in June!

Contrary to current political discourse, this graph shows a clear fact: the will of Europeans to act in favor of the transition energy via renewable energy sources. It highlights the evolution of electricity production sources in Europe over the past 10 years.

• Fossil fuels have declined from nearly 40% in 2016 to 20.5% in June 2025.
• Renewable energies are constantly increasing, with a record production for solar in June 2025.
• Nuclear power remains stable at around 25%.

So why do political discourses seem out of step with this reality?

What do the French really want in terms of energy?

On May 28th, ENGIE and the Ifop Group (the French Institute of Public Opinion) presented an exclusive study on what the French want The French are truly committed to renewable energy. Of the more than 12,000 people surveyed: 48% considered energy issues a major priority; 81% would like to see renewable energy or nuclear power develop within the next 5 years; 81% support the installation of at least one renewable energy infrastructure near their home; and 91% agree with at least one of the five advantages of renewable energy: contributing to the fight against climate change; strengthening France's energy sovereignty; creating jobs in France; contributing to the local economy; and reducing energy bills. Source

The emerging trend shows that the French want to be agents of change. Demanding concrete projects in the coming years, they want to get involved in the energy transition. Independent of current political rhetoric, this citizen will demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing climate and energy challenges.

And you, what is your opinion on French policy regarding renewable energy? Share your thoughts in the comments!