France Targets 48 GW Solar Capacity by 2030 Under PPE3 Program

France is significantly accelerating its energy transition with the launch of its new multi-year energy policy, the Programmation Pluriannuelle de l’Énergie (PPE3). This ambitious program sets a clear and aggressive path towards decarbonization, placing a major emphasis on the expansion of solar power. Under the new framework, France aims to achieve 48 GW of solar capacity by 2030, a substantial increase designed to bolster the nation’s renewable energy portfolio.

Ambitious Goals for France solar capacity target

The PPE3 program outlines a detailed development plan for continuous growth in renewable power generation. The solar energy targets are particularly noteworthy, projecting an increase from approximately 30 GW in 2025 to 48 GW by 2030. Looking further ahead, the policy sets an even more ambitious goal of reaching between 55 GW and 80 GW of installed solar capacity by 2035.

While solar is a key pillar of the strategy, the PPE3 program establishes comprehensive targets across the renewable energy spectrum to create a diversified and resilient energy mix:

• Onshore Wind: The plan targets 31 GW by 2030 and a range of 35-40 GW by 2035, up from an expected 24 GW in 2025. A key focus will be on renewing and repowering existing wind farms to maximize efficiency.
• Offshore Wind: A significant expansion is planned, with a target of 15 GW of capacity by 2035. This goal takes into account the necessary development of industrial capacity, infrastructure, and grid connections.
• Hydroelectric Power: The strategy includes a 2.8 GW increase in hydroelectric capacity through optimization and new projects, with 1.7 GW of this coming from pumped-storage facilities.

A Comprehensive Strategy for France solar capacity target

The PPE3 program is more than just a set of renewable energy targets; it represents a holistic approach to transforming France’s energy landscape. The overarching objective is to achieve 60% decarbonized energy in the country’s power consumption by 2030, rising to 70% by 2035.

To reach these goals, the policy promotes a multi-faceted strategy that includes:

• Diversifying Energy Sources: The plan relies on a balanced mix of nuclear, wind, solar, and hydro power.
• Promoting Electrification: Encouraging the shift to electricity in sectors like transport and heating is a core component.
• Developing Low-Carbon Alternatives: The program supports the growth of biomethane, biofuels, green hydrogen, and low-carbon district heating networks.

In its implementation, the PPE3 policy intends to favor European industry in its public tenders. This commitment is already being demonstrated, as seen in a recent technology-neutral tender where France awarded 507.7 MW of capacity across 36 new solar projects, signaling the country’s immediate action towards its long-term vision.