Energy sobriety means reducing energy expenditure by adjusting usage to needs. In October 2022, the French government drew up 15 key measures to be implemented to reduce energy use. Companies, households and local authorities are all concerned. These measures are grouped into four different themes: the fight against electricity waste, energy efficiency, sustainable mobilization and environmental awareness in the workplace. A global approach is needed to guarantee the success of these initiatives and ensure a sustainable energy future for all.
By 2024, the French government has set itself the target of reducing energy consumption by 10% compared with 2021.
Published on 31 October 2023
20 commitments to help reduce energy consumption
In this article:
What is the 2015 law on ecological transition?
On August 17, 2015, the French government validated its energy model for green growth. It includes 970 amendments and 212 articles. The texts communicate the actions taken to make the country energy independent. What’s more, they’re more concerned with protecting the environment, safeguarding public health and combating global warming.
Medium and long-term objectives are to be achieved:
- Reduce our fossil fuel consumption by 30% by 2030
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions to contribute to the European objective of reducing emissions by 40% by 2030.
- Increase the share of renewable energies to 32% of final energy consumption by 2030 and to 40% of electricity production.
- Halve our energy consumption by 2050 (compared with 2012)
- Reduce the volume of waste sent to landfill by 50% by 2050
To achieve these objectives, the government has launched campaigns and a plan of measures to be implemented.
What are the different challenges facing energy sobriety today?
A number of challenges lie ahead:
- Financial stakes for companies: rising energy prices
- Global warming: we need to reduce our carbon emissions
- Problematic supply of rare earths due to political, social and environmental consequences
- Tension over supply due to shutdown of nuclear power plants, or the desire to reduce dependence on gas.
In France, the industrial sector is responsible for 20% of carbon emissions. In its vision for 2030 – 2050, ADEME confirms that industry could reduce its energy consumption by almost 20% compared to 2010.
ADEME confirms that industry could reduce its energy consumption by almost 20% compared to 2010.
Can I play my part in energy conservation?
The answer is obvious: yes. Even a single person can contribute to this sobriety. The law and the action plan put in place by the government apply to everyone.
There are lots of ways to get involved! This will help preserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help combat climate change.
Saving energy, promoting sustainable transport, reducing food waste, favoring local and eco-responsible products, all count.
Your individual choices, added to those of millions of others, can have a significant impact. This impact can help reduce energy consumption and preserve our planet.
Committing to energy efficiency is not only part of an environmentally-friendly lifestyle, it can also save you money in the long term. Whether by adopting small habits or supporting community initiatives, you’re contributing to a more sustainable future for all.
In this infographic, we’ve put together 20 actions you can take right now, to take part in the energy transition and reduce your energy costs and bills. What are you waiting for?