Electricity capacity in France 2024, by energy source

France's electricity landscape is dominated by nuclear power, with an installed capacity of 61.4 gigawatts in 2024, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the country's total. This reliance on nuclear energy has been a cornerstone of France's electricity production strategy, despite recent challenges. In 2022, the country faced a significant decline in nuclear power generation due to temporary reactor shutdowns, but production has since rebounded, reaching almost 40 terawatt-hours in January 2025.

Nuclear power's central role in France

Nuclear energy is the primary source of electricity in France, with production at 362 terawatt-hours in 2024. This represents an increase from 320 terawatt-hours in the previous year. While nuclear capacity is projected to grow modestly according to a recent forecast, adding two gigawatts by 2035, it will continue to be the largest installed capacity in the country at 63 gigawatts.

Growth of France’s renewable energy sector

Renewable energy sources are gaining ground in France's electricity mix. Hydropower, the second-largest energy source, produced around 75 terawatt-hours in 2024. Solar and wind energy capacities are expanding rapidly, with solar power capacity growing four-fold over the past decade. The country's total renewable energy production is forecast to increase from 128 terawatt-hours in 2023 to 207 terawatt-hours by 2030, indicating a strong commitment to diversifying its energy portfolio.