- Local authorities
[Observatory] The energy transition as seen by 500 locally elected representatives – Download the Idex-Ipsos 2024 survey
How do locally elected representatives perceive the energy transition? Idex, a key player in the local low-carbon energy market, set out to answer this crucial question. Today, it is presenting the results of its first Observatory of the Local Energy Transition, conducted in partnership with Ipsos. This major national survey of 500 local decision-makers shows that local authorities are taking action on a scale never seen before to address the social and ecological challenges of decarbonisation.
Large-scale local mobilisation for the energy transition
The survey of local authorities highlights three main trends:
- 100% of local authorities are involved in at least one energy transition project
- Energy-efficient renovation of local buildings is the top priority for 86% of the elected representatives surveyed
- The development of heating networks has seen a spectacular acceleration
These results confirm the dynamic we are observing in the field. The figures speak for themselves: before the COVID crisis, France was building an average of 30 heating networks a year. Since the energy crisis, this figure has more than doubled to 70 new networks a year. This spectacular acceleration can be explained by two factors: a new awareness of climate urgency and the energy crisis arising from the war in Ukraine. Municipalities are looking for practical and immediate solutions to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Despite this encouraging momentum, the pace is still insufficient to meet decarbonisation targets.
Key figures
100% of municipalities are involved in at least one energy transition project
86% have already initiated energy renovation projects
93% of municipalities say they are ready to address the climate challenge
The best energy is the energy we don't use. This pragmatic approach is unanimously supported by local residents. Energy renovation offers immediately visible benefits: improved comfort, particularly in schools, and lower energy bills. It is a painless ecological transition that is easier to defend than other more divisive aspects.
Obstacles identified by the 500 locally elected representatives
The survey highlighted three main obstacles to the energy transition:
- 92% said the lack of financial resources was the main obstacle
- 84% pointed to administrative complexity
- 74% talked about a lack of engineering capacity
The energy transition is not just a technical or financial issue. First and foremost, it is a local issue. Municipalities are looking for practical solutions tailored to realities on the ground, with particular emphasis on energy performance.
A national tour to share survey results
To further explore these results, Idex is launching a national tour in 2025. “This survey is just the first step,” explains Benjamin Fremaux. “We want to expand the discussion to reflect local realities."
These local meetings will comprise three main parts:
- A detailed presentation of Idex-Ipsos survey results
- A personalised diagnosis of local energy potential
- A tour of exemplary local energy infrastructures
