Electrification: 33 GW of industrial projects awaiting grid connection
On 3 July 2026, RTE set out its strategy: connection reform, ready-to-use zones and €8 billion of annual investment by 2030.
On 3 July 2026, RTE presented its strategy for accelerating the electrification of France, presented as decisive for industrial competitiveness and decarbonisation.
The starting point is clear: 60% of the energy consumed in France still relies on imported fossil fuels, whereas its electricity is already 95% decarbonised.
More than 200 industrial projects are awaiting grid connection, representing around 33 GW — almost three times current industrial electricity demand. They include data centres, hydrogen production facilities and heavy industry.
RTE's response is built around three lines of action. First, a reform of connection procedures by the end of 2026, moving from the "first come, first served" principle to "first ready, first served", in order to favour the most advanced projects.
Second, the creation of zones with available capacity: +9 GW by 2029 in the major industrial ports and +5 GW in intermediate zones. Finally, the launch of accelerated connections for five large data centre projects.
RTE plans to triple its annual investment to reach €8 billion by 2030 for electrification, as part of a €94 billion programme running to 2040, which could generate 8,000 to 10,000 jobs in the power grid sector.