France
Critical minerals, policy, and the energy transition
The Energy Transition in France
France is a key player in Europe’s energy transition, leveraging its nuclear energy leadership and commitment to critical minerals to drive its decarbonisation goals. The country’s energy mix is highly diverse, with a dominant focus on nuclear power, alongside significant contributions from renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. France is also actively securing its position in the global clean tech revolution through strategic mineral resources, particularly rare earth elements, cobalt, and nickel, which are critical for the production of electric vehicles and energy storage systems. France’s strong ESG policies are helping to align its energy and resource strategies with sustainability goals, ensuring that the transition is both environmentally responsible and economically beneficial. The country’s critical mineral production, including aluminium and iron, combined with its advanced refining capabilities, bolsters its role in Europe’s clean technology and mineral resilience. Additionally, France’s participation in international organisations such as the EU, NATO, and the G7 strengthens its geopolitical standing and supports its ongoing commitment to global energy security. By focusing on nuclear energy, mineral resources, and sustainable policies, France is positioned at the forefront of Europe’s energy transition, securing both its energy future and its critical mineral supply chains.
Latest news and insights
Stay ahead in the energy transition with SFA (Oxford)’s cutting-edge insights into how France’s rare earth supply strategy, nuclear energy leadership, and ESG regulation are reinforcing its position at the core of Europe’s clean technology and mineral resilience.

Declaring a US Trade Emergency
3 April 2025 | Jamie Underwood
The US declared a trade emergency, imposing sweeping tariffs, rare exemptions, and bold legal moves. What triggered it, and what will happen next?
France's international economic, trade, and security alliances
France's energy and power mix
Derived and processed Critical Minerals products and recycling in France
Energy Raw Materials and products produced in France
Essential minerals production and products in France
Overseas territories of France




Meet the Critical Minerals team
Trusted advice from a dedicated team of experts.

Henk de Hoop
Chief Executive Officer

Beresford Clarke
Managing Director: Technical & Research

Jamie Underwood
Principal Consultant

Ismet Soyocak
ESG & Critical Minerals Lead

Rj Coetzee
Senior Market Analyst: Battery Materials and Technologies

How can we help you?
SFA (Oxford) provides bespoke, independent intelligence on the strategic metal markets, specifically tailored to your needs. To find out more about what we can offer you, please contact us.