According to a study conducted by IFOP for ENGIE, 84% of French people have a positive image of renewable energy. This figure rises to 94% among those who live near installations such as solar or wind farms.

This support is based on clearly identified benefits: fighting climate change (79%), strengthening energy sovereignty (78%), and job creation (77%). However, the impact on energy bills (62%) still remains to be demonstrated.

Similarly, the French support the development of renewable energy: 62% believe that its deployment is still insufficient, and 68% even hope it will accelerate over the next five years. Furthermore, 56% are convinced that electricity production should be based on a balanced energy mix, combining nuclear and renewable sources, while only 12% believe electricity generation should rely solely on nuclear power.

Contrary to popular belief, residents living near renewable energy installations have a positive and clear-eyed view. They are more likely than the rest of the French population to perceive the benefits (such as job creation and tax advantages), though they also acknowledge the limitations. As a result, they are more likely than others to express a strong expectation for direct compensation related to the presence of these installations.

However, this acceptance does not equate to blind support. It is grounded in concrete experience, detailed knowledge of how the facilities operate, and the ability to put potential inconveniences into perspective. The study shows that proximity, far from generating rejection, actually contributes to shaping a more realistic and informed opinion.

The data indicates that 56% of French citizens believe electricity production should rely on a combination of nuclear and renewable energy.

This study was carried out from April 3 to 16, 2025, based on an exceptional sample of 12,029 people representative of the French population, including 2,500 who live near a renewable energy plant.

Jérôme Fourquet, Director of the Opinion Department at IFOP, stated:
"The French support renewable energy. Demanding as they may be, their support is based on tangible evidence, visible benefits, and a balanced energy mix. Far from naïve enthusiasm, it reflects a mature expectation for a credible energy transition."

Catherine MacGregor, CEO of ENGIE, added: "Renewable energy enjoys a very positive image among the French, which contrasts with the idea of widespread opposition often portrayed. ENGIE, as a leader in wind and solar energy in France, is fully committed to meeting citizens' expectations—making the benefits of this transition visible in their daily lives."

However, this support must be reinforced with empirical data. The French expect concrete information on the production capacity of renewable energies, their reliability, and their impact on landscapes and biodiversity. There is a clear demand for guarantees covering the entire value chain—from dependency on imported essential components to recycling.

On these topics, energy companies are seen as a credible source of information by 67% of respondents—ranking ahead of the media, AI, and political leaders—and are therefore viewed as trustworthy messengers.