Priorities for the implementation of the energy transition for the current five-year term

This Policy Brief sets out six priorities to accelerate the energy transition in France based on learnings from recent or ongoing studies at IDDRI:

1. initiating large-scale energy efficiency retrofitting;
2. anticipating and planning the transformation of the electricity system;
3. shaping the transformation in the mobility sector through green objectives;
4. integrating local energy management methods;
5. mobilizing funding sources for the energy transition;
6. placing the energy transition at the heart of the European and global agenda.

RECOMMENDATIONS: ·      

• A review of sectoral policies is necessary to set the country on track to achieving national energy policy objectives: overhauling incentive mechanisms to encourage large-scale energy efficiency retrofitting, smoothing the road for new renewable energy projects while outlining a clear strategy for a reduction of the installed capacity of nuclear, identifying and using levers addressing mobility needs within land use policy measures.
   
• A plan to tackle mobility-related vulnerability with a dedicated mechanism to support employees and regions vulnerable to economic restructuring due to the closing of industrial sites will help ensure a “just” and inclusive transition. New modes of energy governance and interaction between local authorities and citizens could also be promoted so that they can become real tools for the facilitation of the transition at a regional and local level. 
   
• In addition to the already-announced environmental fiscal reforms, some thought on the distribution channels for financial flows and their modalities would help in mobilizing the necessary funds and reinforcing the attractiveness of these mechanisms and the effectiveness of the public funds committed.
   
• The proposal for an Energy Union could play a major part in boosting the European Union and placing it at the forefront of strengthening ambition during international negotiations on climate. Having played a crucial role in the Paris Climate Agreement, France has a legitimate place in these discussions and could use its position to initiate stronger co-operation with neighbouring countries that share a commitment to ensuring a smooth and controlled transition at EU level.