Report

Background: a regulatory framework that will shape the energy transition

The energy transition is a major challenge for France, both environmentally and socio-economically. Faced with the challenges posed by climate change and the depletion of natural resources, it is essential to rethink our model of energy production and consumption.

In 2015, the Energy Transition for Green Growth Act, together with the Paris Agreement concluded at COP21, were decisive for the energy transition in France. They set out an ambitious roadmap and laid the foundations for a far-reaching transformation of the energy system. France then committed to cutting its greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 compared with 1990 levels, and to reaching carbon neutrality by 2050.

In addition, several texts contribute to a comprehensive regulatory framework that supports an accelerated, lasting energy transition:

• the European Green Deal (2019)
• the Climate and Resilience law (2021)
• the European Green Taxonomy (2022)
• the bill on renewable energy and nuclear power (2023)

An energy transition that goes beyond clean energy generation alone

To meet these targets, France must undertake a major energy transition, which cannot be approached solely through the lens of clean energy generation. It must also take account of upstream and downstream issues along the value chain, including waste management, energy efficiency, resource sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint.

The role of the circular economy in the energy transition

Through its approach favouring the reuse, repair, recycling and regeneration of resources throughout their life cycle, the circular economy offers considerable opportunities to reduce our dependence on virgin resources, cut waste and emissions, and promote a more efficient and sustainable use of energy.

Continuing its commitment to supporting the transition of private and public actors towards a circular economy, Circul'R wanted to analyse the close link between France's energy transition and the circular economy.

What you will find in this report

In a first part, we analyse the specific challenges facing the energy transition, both upstream and downstream of the energy chain, and look at how the circular economy can provide concrete answers to them. In a second part, we highlight the circular levers that can facilitate and accelerate the energy transition, examining the different pillars of the circular economy and their capacity to support it.

By combining the strengths of the energy transition and the circular economy, France can aspire to a more sustainable, resilient and prosperous energy future. It is time to explore these synergies in detail and seize the opportunities they offer.