French Government Suspends MaPrimeRénov' Program Amid Surging Demand and Fraud Concerns
The French government has temporarily suspended the MaPrimeRénov' energy renovation aid program due to high demand and fraud issues.
Key Points
- • Suspension due to overwhelming applications and fraud attempts confirmed by Economy Minister Eric Lombard.
- • Program may resume by year-end after resolving identified issues.
- • Around 16,000 suspicious applications are under scrutiny.
- • Critics express concern over the impact on energy renovations and vulnerable households.
The French government has officially suspended the MaPrimeRénov' energy renovation aid program due to overwhelming demand and rising fraudulent applications, as confirmed by Economy Minister Eric Lombard on June 5, 2025. This decision comes in the wake of a dramatic increase in the number of homes renovated under the program, which tripled in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, despite budget cuts for 2025.
The government's action aims to address a backlog created by approximately 16,000 suspicious applications, which account for 12% of all submissions. Lombard clarified that the program's suspension is not a budgetary issue, as the state had allocated 3.6 billion euros for it, with only 1.3 billion euros expended so far. However, local authorities have reported exhausting their allocated budgets, indicating high demand for the renovations.
"We intend to resume the program before the end of the year once we have resolved the current issues," Lombard stated, highlighting the government’s commitment to returning the program to operational status. During the suspension, new applications for comprehensive renovations, insulation, or heating system upgrades will not be accepted over the summer but may reopen by the end of September. Applications submitted prior to the suspension will be processed and paid out promptly, according to Minister of Housing Valérie Létard.
Critics, including the collective Rénovons, have vocalized their concerns, arguing that suspending the program disrupts the progress of households engaged in essential energy renovations, which play a vital role in improving comfort and reducing energy costs. Manuel Domergue, director of studies at the Fondation pour le logement, condemned the suspension, stressing the potential repercussions for vulnerable populations left without adequate heating.
Frustration within the renovation sector has also been noted, as artisans seek more predictability in an unpredictable economic landscape. The abrupt policy change poses challenges for those involved in the renovation industry, who fear the impact on ongoing projects and future planning.