France has shown a remarkable achievement in its electricity sector, with over 96% of its electricity being generated from low-carbon sources in the period from August 2024 to July 2025. This remarkable feat includes a significant contribution from nuclear energy, which alone accounts for nearly 69% of the electricity mix, positioning France as a leader in clean electricity generation. Hydropower contributes around 13%, while wind and solar add approximately 8.5% and 5.3% respectively. Fossil fuels, on the other hand, are responsible for a mere 3.5% of electricity generation, highlighting France's proactive stance towards sustainable energy. As the country sets its sights on further electrification of sectors like transport, heating, and industry, it is imperative that France continues to expand its electricity generation capacity to meet increasing demand.
Is Electricity Growing in France?
Examining the trends in electricity consumption in France, it is evident that the country's per capita electricity use is not currently growing, having declined from the historical peak. The latest consumption rate stands at about 7917 kWh per person, down significantly from the 2004 record of 9384 kWh per person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation is experiencing a downward trend, with the latest figures at approximately 7639 kWh per person compared to the 8432 kWh per person in 2004. This decline of almost 800 units in low-carbon contributions per person is concerning, especially given the urgency of expanding clean energy production to address climate change and other environmental challenges.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, France could focus on expanding its nuclear and solar capabilities, given their substantial and reliable potential. Enhancing nuclear facilities could further solidify France’s leadership in clean electricity, especially since nuclear energy already provides a large portion of the power supply. Additionally, increasing solar energy installations would diversify the electricity mix and provide a robust response to fluctuating energy demands. As both nuclear and solar offer sustainable and low-emission solutions, their expansion would be pivotal in meeting future electricity needs sustainably and efficiently.
History
In reflecting on the progression of low-carbon electricity generation, the late 20th century, particularly the 1980s and early 1990s, saw substantial growth in nuclear energy output. Several years during this period recorded increases in nuclear generation, particularly in 1981 and 1984, where the rises were well over 40 TWh. However, the last few decades of the 21st century have experienced fluctuations, with notable declines in specific years such as 2009, 2016, and recently in 2020 and 2022. Despite these challenges, significant gains in nuclear generation in 2021, 2023, and 2024 reflect a resilient trajectory towards enhancing nuclear capabilities. France must build on these successes to ensure a steady increase in clean electricity generation, capitalizing on its historic strengths while embracing innovative advancements in green energy technologies.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.