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France is unlikely to meet its offshore wind energy goals unless it simplifies permitting procedures and improves its investment environment, according to a new report from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA).
Although France has issued several tenders since 2011, it currently has only 1.5 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind in operation. This contributes just 1% to the nation’s electricity supply, significantly behind other Northwest European nations.
The report warns that if France does not speed up its offshore wind rollout, the country may only reach 3 GW of operational capacity by 2032. This would fall far short of the government’s 18 GW target for 2035 and limit offshore wind’s potential to replace aging nuclear reactors set for decommissioning.
Jonathan Bruegel, an energy analyst at IEEFA and author of the report, explained that offshore wind development in France has been hindered by a combination of complex permitting procedures, legal challenges, and the country’s strong emphasis on nuclear energy. He noted that France lacks the political commitment and financial support for offshore wind that is evident in other European nations, resulting in investor uncertainty.
Bruegel added that urgent action is needed from France to ensure offshore wind can significantly contribute to enhancing energy security and replacing aging nuclear power plants, most of which are expected to retire by 2030.
The study urges France to fast-track licensing for offshore wind and reduce the duration allowed for legal objections against awarded tenders.
The analysis also highlights that government backing of nuclear energy has diverted both focus and funds away from renewable sources, threatening France’s energy future. To keep nuclear power from sidelining offshore wind, IEEFA proposes several actions:
- Develop a nuclear phase-down plan with offshore wind as a pillar: When ageing nuclear plants are phased out, the government should create a structured transition plan prioritizing offshore wind and other renewables.
- Invest in grid adaptation: France’s transmission system operator should develop a modernized, more innovative, and more flexible grid that can handle intermittent renewables.
- Reform market regulations: Nuclear should cease to have priority access to the grid and should not be granted a preferential feed-in tariff. Renewables should be made eligible for capacity mechanism payments.
- Diversify energy investments: Offshore wind projects should be made more attractive to investors through stable policies and incentives. Public investment should be redirected to offshore wind and renewables infrastructure.
Bruegel concluded that unlocking France’s offshore wind potential is essential for transitioning from a nuclear-dominated energy system to a more diversified power mix with a substantial share of renewables.
