The French government has cancelled the Rhonergia hydroelectric project on the Rhône River, a major initiative proposed by Compagnie Nationale du Rhône (CNR), newswires have reported. The project, intended to be situated between Saint-Romain-de-Jalionas (Isère) and Loyettes (Ain), faced mounting opposition from local and regional elected officials, leading to the government’s decision to halt the development.
The Rhonergia project aimed to construct a 22km-long reservoir and a 4km dike designed to slow the river’s flow, with a projected head of 6.8m to generate approximately 140 GWh per year. The construction was estimated to cost €330 million. However, despite CNR’s ambitions to enhance energy independence and combat climate change, the proposal faced significant local and environmental concerns.
Local officials have praised the government’s decision, citing the importance of protecting natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Some environmental associations and local residents were concerned about the impact on natural and aquatic environments, particularly with regards to the fish ecosystem and water quality, on which the drinking water supply of the Lyon metropolitan area depends.
The cancellation of Rhonergia has prompted renewed discussions about energy strategy in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The CNR and French government are now tasked with developing alternative projects that align with environmental standards while meeting local energy demands. Potential paths forward include enhancing existing hydroelectric facilities, integrating renewable energy sources, or exploring advanced technologies that minimize environmental impact.
