Industrial Transformation: From Users to Producers

French industry, traditionally energy-intensive, became a renewable energy driver. Total (now TotalEnergies) transformed from oil major to renewable developer. Engie pivoted from fossil gas to green energy. These transformations, driven by climate commitments and economic logic, repositioned French companies in global energy markets.

Innovation extended beyond generation to utilization. Hydrogen production for industrial decarbonization became a French priority. The Dunkirk project, producing hydrogen for steel production, demonstrated feasibility. Green ammonia for fertilizer, sustainable aviation fuels from renewable electricity, and other Power-to-X technologies attracted investment.

Supply chain development proved challenging but essential. French companies developed expertise in renewable energy components—power electronics, control systems, specialized materials. The Offshore Wind Competence Center in Cherbourg trained workers for new industries. These capabilities, building on traditional industrial strengths, created employment replacing fossil fuel jobs.