French Government Relaunches Major Renewable Energy Tenders to Boost Wind and Solar Power

On April 2, 2026, the French government officially announced the relaunch of calls for tenders aimed at expanding renewable electricity production, focusing on onshore and offshore wind energy alongside photovoltaics. This initiative is designed to reduce France's heavy dependence on fossil fuels, which currently account for 60% of final energy consumption — a figure the government seeks to invert by reaching 60% decarbonized energy by 2030 and 70% by 2035.

Energy Minister Maud Bregeon, speaking during a press conference, emphasized the significance of this step, stating, "It is an honor for me to announce the revival of tenders for renewable electric energies." The tender relaunch follows the national energy roadmap released in February and incorporates a reshuffle combining previously separate calls into a single process.

For offshore wind, the government plans to add 15 gigawatts (GW) of capacity by 2035, out of which 5 GW has already been allocated. The current tender will launch the remaining 10 GW, split evenly between fixed and floating offshore wind, covering several maritime zones. Results from this tender process are anticipated by late 2026 to early 2027. Meanwhile, photovoltaic tenders are scheduled for July, accompanied by an onshore wind tender set for May.

On the same day, Economy Minister Roland Lescure and Energy Minister Maud Bregeon visited the offshore wind farm near the island of Yeu in Vendée, underscoring government commitment to the offshore wind sector's development.

These renewable energy initiatives complement France's broader energy strategy, which includes enhancing nuclear capacities through six next-generation EPR2 reactors, with the first expected to be operational by 2038. Together, these measures form a comprehensive approach to achieving France's decarbonization and energy independence goals amid rising fossil fuel prices influenced by global conflicts.