France Unveils $100 Billion Plan to Modernize Electric Grid by 2040

The ambitious investment aims to support decarbonization, adapt to climate challenges, and meet growing electricity demand.

RTE, France's public electricity grid operator, announced a $100 billion modernization plan extending through 2040 to renew and expand 40,000 km of high-voltage power lines.
The initiative is designed to support the electrification of the economy, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and enable the integration of renewable and nuclear energy sources.
The upgrades will increase the grid's resilience to extreme weather, including heatwaves and centennial floods, as France anticipates a 4°C temperature rise by 2100.
Consumers are not expected to see immediate impacts on electricity prices, as the cost will be amortized over 40 years and minimally affect tariffs in the short term.
The plan emphasizes economic competitiveness, circular economy practices, and infrastructure to support industrial growth, including ports and future energy-intensive projects like data centers.