Bruno Retailleau, president of the French political party Les Républicains (LR), has publicly called for a moratorium on public subsidies for wind and solar energy, advocating instead for a renewed focus on nuclear power. Retailleau's position, articulated through a co-signed tribune and multiple statements, argues for a reassessment of renewable energy subsidies, emphasizing the economic and patriotic risks he associates with current renewable policies. This stance has sparked a broad political debate in France. President Emmanuel Macron and other government officials, including Clément Beaune, the high commissioner for Strategy and Planning, have countered Retailleau by affirming the necessity of a balanced energy mix that includes both nuclear and renewable sources. Macron highlighted that France still needs renewable energy despite having closed the Fessenheim nuclear plant. Other government figures, such as Minister of Industry and Energy Marc Ferracci and Minister of Ecological Transition Agnès Pannier-Runacher, have criticized Retailleau's approach, labeling it as populist and irresponsible, warning of potential electricity shortages by 2040 if renewable development stalls. The debate has also revealed divisions within LR, with some members like Florence Portelli opposing Retailleau's plan to halt renewable subsidies. The Senate recently rejected the proposed moratorium on renewables, aligning with European Union directives, which some experts warn may lead to increased electricity costs for French consumers. Political analysts suggest Retailleau's position aims to consolidate electoral support in regions opposed to wind projects, while Macron's government seeks to maintain a pragmatic energy policy balancing nuclear and renewables. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions in France's energy strategy ahead of upcoming elections.