France’s National Assembly voted on Thursday to impose a moratorium on new wind and solar energy projects, in a move led by conservative MPs and supported by the Rassemblement National (RN). The decision marks a significant shift in France’s energy debate, as right-leaning parties push for a more measured and independent assessment of the country’s energy future.
The amendment was introduced by Jérôme Nury, a Republican MP from Orne, as part of a broader energy programming bill. It calls for an immediate halt to new wind and photovoltaic installations “for the duration necessary to conduct an objective and independent study to determine the optimal energy mix for France, both economically and environmentally.”
Though the government and left-wing MPs opposed the measure, many were absent from the vote. With 57 RN deputies present in the chamber and backing from other conservative factions—including the Republicans and the new UDR party founded by Éric Ciotti—the amendment passed by 65 votes to 62, with four abstentions.
Industry Minister Marc Ferracci called the move “irresponsible” and “devastating,” while Green MP Sandrine Rousseau claimed it endangered future generations. RN deputy Jean-Philippe Tanguy responded by highlighting the absence of Green MPs during the vote.
The bill also includes provisions to relaunch France’s nuclear programme, including restarting the Fessenheim plant closed in 2020, and building 14 new reactors by 2030. The aim is to increase nuclear capacity by 27 gigawatts by 2050 as part of the country’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality.
The moratorium must still pass a second reading in the Senate, with a final vote expected on 24 June. The government plans to publish the final decrees by the end of summer.
