France

France plans to reduce the share of nuclear from 70% to 50% in its electricity mix by 2035 and close its last coal plants by 2022. Many nuclear reactors are reaching the end of their lifetime, which requires modernising those that can continue long-term operations under safe conditions. Maintaining security of the electricity system and a low-carbon footprint while reducing the share of nuclear energy will require investments in efficiency, renewable energy and enhanced and flexible power system operation. In 2021, the IEA and network operator RTE published a study on operating a power system with very high shares of variable renewables.

France imports all of its oil and gas needs and its oil and gas industry and infrastructure is adapting to low carbon fuels and electrification.

Last updated May 23, 2023