The resounding rejection by the French National Assembly of the proposed Energy Planning Law has been interpreted as a strategic victory by renewable energy associations. SER, ENERPLAN, and France Renouvelables are coordinating a national response to what they call “energy aberrations” and a direct threat to the development of solar and wind power in the country.
The legislative result (377 votes against, 142 in favor, and 47 abstentions) not only halts a regulatory framework perceived as restrictive, but also demonstrates the strength of the renewable ecosystem. The driving organizations claim this political moment reveals “the very broad support” these technologies enjoy in France, from civil society to strategic sectors.
“By rejecting this incoherent text, the National Assembly has restored reason to our country’s energy debates,” the joint statement emphasizes.
From the Syndicat des Énergies Renouvelables (SER), which represents more than 500 members across all renewable technologies and over 166,000 jobs, the message is clear: this legislative shift was driven by the mobilization of a broad alliance—local elected officials, regional leaders, industry representatives, farmers, environmental NGOs, the construction sector, and energy stakeholders.
The law’s defeat: a turning point against a potential moratorium
The bill aimed to limit the development of renewable energy projects, raising alarms across the industry about a potential moratorium. In direct response, the associations underscore that solar and wind power not only provide climate benefits but also serve as economic, territorial, and industrial tools. “Renewable energy is a tool of energy sovereignty and a solution for all French citizens,” the associations affirm.
The joint communiqué outlines the key advantages of renewables: job creation, local value generation, industrial reconversion, complementary income for agriculture, and reduced fossil fuel dependency. These are essential levers for strengthening the French energy system and meeting climate goals.
Sector pushes for the urgent publication of the PPE
Following the parliamentary result, pressure now shifts to the Government. SER, ENERPLAN, and France Renouvelables are calling for the immediate publication of the Multiannual Energy Programming (PPE) decree, which is the primary roadmap for investment visibility and long-term energy policy stability.
“The PPE is the only tool capable of restoring trust in the sector and guaranteeing our energy sovereignty,” the signatories insist.
ENERPLAN, representing France’s entire solar energy value chain, warns that the current regulatory vacuum is holding back crucial investment decisions. They stress that clear guidance is needed for the sector to meet France’s carbon neutrality targets and maintain competitiveness.
A united front across the energy ecosystem
The organizations stress that the rejection of the law is the result of broad and cross-sector mobilization, cutting across political, geographic, and industrial boundaries. It highlights a convergence of interests between territorial stakeholders and national strategies.
“This moment of truth confirms that these solutions are widely supported by our fellow citizens,” state the associations, echoing recent public opinion surveys.
Finally, the associations appeal to the French Senate, which will revisit the bill, to act with “wisdom, balance, and reason”, ensuring the continuity of France’s commitment to a clean, reliable, and sovereign energy transition.
