France to spend €200 billion on electricity grid modernisation

France will need around €200 billion to modernise its electricity grids as part of the transition to a lower-carbon energy system, Economy, Finance, Industry, Energy, and Digital Sovereignty Minister Roland Lescure told BFMTV.

Lescure noted that parts of the distribution network were built in the post-war period and now require updating, Caliber.Az reports.

“Today we have distribution networks dating back to the post-war era that require investment,” the minister said, a few days after the announcement of the multi-year energy plan (PPE). 

“There is €200 billion planned for investment in networks, high-voltage lines, what we call electricity transmission and distribution,” he added.

Investments will cover distribution networks, high-voltage lines, transmission systems, and power supply infrastructure.

According to the minister, modernising the infrastructure will boost low-carbon energy production and ensure the reliability of the power system amid climate and technological changes.

The PPE 3 is France’s new multi‑year energy strategy for 2026–2035, setting out how the country plans to reach carbon neutrality by 2050 through expanded low‑carbon power generation and reduced fossil fuel use. 

The plan combines targets for nuclear, renewables, and electrification of demand, including construction of new reactors and extension of existing nuclear capacity, while lowering fossil fuel consumption and driving broader electrification of industry and transport.

By Jeyhun Aghazada