2024-11-04 17:31:00
France has reiterated its goal of halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The share of fossil energies such as oil and gas in final consumption is to be reduced from 60 percent in 2022 to 42 percent by 2030. This emerges from the multi-year energy plan presented by the Environment Ministry in Paris on Monday.
The plan also reiterates the intention to build next-generation nuclear power plants and overhaul existing reactors. This is intended to expand their capacity from 320 terawatt hours in 2023 to at least 360 terawatt hours in 2030.
According to the plan, solar power capacity is expected to increase sixfold compared to 2022. The government expects an additional 5.5 gigawatts per year. Wind power, which is rather poorly developed in France, should also be expanded. According to the plan, the goal is an annual increase of 1.5 gigawatts. This could result in a total of 40 gigawatts by 2035, almost twice as much as in 2020. Offshore wind power is expected to reach a capacity of 18 gigawatts by 2035. Currently it is only 1.5 gigawatts.
The government is also setting itself the goal of two-thirds of new cars sold being electric vehicles by 2030. By the end of the decade, the aim is to achieve a 15 percent share of electric cars in the country’s entire vehicle population.
Despite a sales boom over the past four years, electric vehicles accounted for just 2.2 percent of vehicles registered in France at the beginning of 2024, according to the ministry. The transport sector is responsible for almost a third of greenhouse gas emissions.
This value has hardly been able to be reduced so far, said Environment State Secretary François Durovray. He called for a redesign of the city’s infrastructure to shorten distances, promote public transport and promote the electrification of vehicles.
Electric vehicles have accounted for 17 percent of new car sales in France since the start of the year, but growth has stalled, particularly in the electrification of corporate fleets, according to government figures. According to the draft budget currently being debated, subsidies for electric cars are to be significantly reduced next year. In the future, the bonus should primarily be granted to those who rely on an electric vehicle to get to work, according to the ministry.
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**Interview with Dr. Claire Dupont, Energy Policy Expert**
**Interviewer:** Good evening, Dr. Dupont. Thank you for joining us to discuss France’s ambitious energy plan. The Environment Ministry recently outlined a strategy to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. How significant is this goal in the context of global climate change efforts?
**Dr. Dupont:** Good evening, and thank you for having me. France’s commitment to cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 50% compared to 1990 levels is indeed a pivotal move, especially when you consider the urgent need for nations to address climate change. This plan places France among the frontrunners in Europe, and by setting a solid framework, it encourages other countries to elevate their ambitions as well.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the reduction of fossil fuels in France’s energy consumption—from 60% in 2022 to 42% by 2030. What impact do you foresee this reduction having on the overall energy landscape in France?
**Dr. Dupont:** The reduction of fossil fuels is crucial for transitioning to a more sustainable energy system. By cutting reliance on oil and gas, France aims to enhance energy security and reduce its vulnerability to external shocks. It will also foster the development of renewable energy sources, creating jobs in these sectors while driving innovation in clean technologies.
**Interviewer:** The plan includes building next-generation nuclear power plants. Why is nuclear energy still a focal point for France as it tries to transition to greener energy sources?
**Dr. Dupont:** Nuclear energy plays a central role in France’s energy policy due to its ability to provide large-scale, reliable, and low-carbon electricity. By upgrading existing reactors and investing in next-generation nuclear technology, France can maintain a stable energy supply while significantly reducing carbon emissions. This dual focus on nuclear and renewables can provide a balanced approach to energy security and sustainability.
**Interviewer:** Additionally, the solar power capacity is expected to increase sixfold by 2030. What challenges do you think France might face in achieving this target?
**Dr. Dupont:** While the potential for solar energy is substantial, challenges include securing adequate land for solar farms, ensuring grid capacity can handle increased renewable inputs, and addressing the industry’s dependence on global supply chains. Furthermore, public acceptance and regulatory frameworks must be navigated carefully to facilitate swift development.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Dupont, for sharing your insights. France’s energy transition is undoubtedly critical for its future, and we look forward to seeing how these plans unfold.
**Dr. Dupont:** Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting yet challenging journey that will be closely watched worldwide.
