Local elections 2026: 7 out of 10 French people could vote for a candidate who includes citizen financing of energy projects

In a context marked by questions about the national energy trajectory, the study reveals a shift in expectations towards the municipal level, and makes citizen financing an emerging electoral issue.

A national context marked by doubt… and strong local expectations

A study conducted by Enerfip from January 29 to February 02, 2026, with a sample of 1260 French people, reveals a climate of distrust among citizens regarding the national energy trajectory. Indeed, more than half of French people (56%) believe that France is not on track to achieve its decarbonization goals. The public debate on energy primarily elicits fatigue (35%) and anger (27%).

While the PPE3 provides a framework expected by the sector and short-term visibility, it has not, however, dispelled all the questions about long-term stability and ambition.

In this context, citizens are expressing a very clear desire to get involved.

95% believe that citizens have a role to play in the energy transition and more than one in two French people want to be concretely involved in local decisions.

The energy transition is emerging as an issue that now goes beyond the national framework alone to become rooted in local territories.

Citizen crowdfunding widely acclaimed

As the 2026 municipal elections approach, energy transition issues are emerging as a concrete voting criterion for citizens. 70% of French people say that the inclusion of citizen financing mechanisms in a municipal program could positively influence their vote. The results reveal a massive consensus in favor of residents' financial involvement in local energy projects.

• 92% believe that citizen financing facilitates the acceptance of projects.
• 95% believe it can accelerate the energy transition.
• 86% want municipalities to develop more projects financed with citizens.

It is also important to note that 40% of respondents consider crowdfunding primarily as a democratic tool, ahead of its financial role (36%).

The energy transition: a cross-party issue championed by citizens

For Enerfip, the results of this study primarily reflect a profound shift in the perception of energy issues in France. The energy transition is no longer solely a technical or national debate; it has become a cross-party issue that must shape municipal political action and local democracy.

The study also shows a growing awareness among citizens of the climate, economic, and territorial challenges related to energy. The French no longer simply want to be consulted; they want to participate, invest, and contribute concretely to projects in their local area.

For Julien Hostache, president and co-founder of Enerfip: “As the municipal elections approach, the French are sending a clear message: the energy transition is a local and concrete issue. They no longer want to be spectators in energy decisions, but key players. Citizen financing meets this expectation by involving residents in projects and strengthening their acceptance. The success of the energy transition will be built in local communities and with citizens.”

Illustrative image of the article via Depositphotos.com.