FR: "Without a structural reduction in energy demand, decarbonisation is out of reach" (Shift Project)

“Without a structural reduction in energy demand, decarbonisation and sovereignty will remain out of reach,” states the Shift Project in its report “Sovereignty through Decarbonisation: The Necessary Path for France and Europe”, presented on 12/11/2025.

According to the think tank, France must halve its energy consumption by 2050. This requires strong energy efficiency measures—such as large-scale building renovation and efficient electrification—as well as policies promoting energy sobriety through infrastructure planning, regulation, incentives and taxation. To prepare the report, the Shift Project developed a modelling tool tracking all stages of energy production and consumption.

This analysis led to the concept of France’s “energy exposure”, defined as the total energy required to operate the country, sustain living standards and support economic activity. In 2022, France’s energy exposure stood at 2,550 TWh. Domestic production accounted for 494 TWh (19%), energy imports for 1,373 TWh (54%) and imports of goods and services for 683 TWh (27%). “France produces only a quarter…