Leaders of the French far-right are proposing radical changes to the country’s energy system, as reported by the German newspaper Handelsblatt. They argue for France to withdraw from the European energy market and return to “French electricity.” This idea is endorsed by key figures such as Eric Ciottin, the chairman of the Republican party, and Jordan Bardella, the main candidate of the National Alliance. Bardella’s proposal for an independent French electricity price is gaining traction, especially given his potential role as Prime Minister following the upcoming elections.
The recent French parliamentary elections have brought to light these radical proposals regarding France’s exit from the European energy market. This move has raised concerns among many European experts, given the potential repercussions on the continent’s energy systems. The European unified electricity market, which has been in operation for almost 30 years, might face significant challenges if France were to disconnect.
The liberalization of electricity markets in Europe, starting in the 1990s, aimed to increase efficiency, innovation, and resource utilization across the continent. By fostering competition, the EU sought to enhance overall benefits for consumers. However, the far-right parties in France are critical of renewable energy forms like solar and wind power, favoring the country’s reliance on nuclear energy. This differing approach has sparked debates on the future of France’s energy market and its place within the European landscape.
Experts warned of the potential consequences of France’s withdrawal from the European energy market, citing possible energy outages and price increases. Concerns have also emerged regarding the import of French nuclear electricity to neighboring countries like Germany. With the French far-right opposing renewable energy sources, the debate around France’s energy policies has taken center stage in the political discourse. France’s reliance on nuclear power and the challenges with overproduction of wind and solar energy further complicate the issue at hand.