France’s energy mix is heavily dominated by nuclear power, which provides roughly 65-69% of its electricity generation as of 2024-2025, making it one of the lowest-carbon intensity grids in Europe. When considering all energy (not just electricity), nuclear provides 44%, followed by oil (27%) and gas (12%).

France is heavily investing to become a global leader in green hydrogen by 2030, supported by a €7 billion national strategy aimed at developing a 4.5 GW to 6.5 GW electrolysis industry to decarbonize heavy industry and transport. Key initiatives include major industrial projects like Normand High, strict 2030 transport mandates (1.5% renewable hydrogen), and exploring natural “white” hydrogen reserves. Significant deposits of naturally occurring “white hydrogen” were discovered in Lorraine, France, in 2023–2025 by researchers from France’s National Centre of Scientific Research and La Française de l’Energie. Estimated between 6 million and 250 million metric tons, this potentially massive find could significantly boost France’s energy independence and provide a low-cost, clean energy source.

The 2025 updated strategy aims for 4.5 GW to 6.5 GW of electrolyzer capacity by 2030, focusing on producing hydrogen through electrolysis powered by renewable energy. A €7 billion investment, partially funded through 2025 updates, supports gigafactories for electrolyzers and infrastructure development, including the BarMar pipeline connecting to Spain.