Suspension of MaPrimeRénov’: Energy Renovation Sector in Uproar, Protests Under Consideration

The government’s abrupt decision to suspend the MaPrimeRénov’ public subsidy scheme has sent shockwaves through the energy renovation industry. On Thursday, June 5, nearly twenty professional federations—from heating and electrical sectors to climate engineering—voiced their “astonishment” and “deep concern.” They condemned the move as “unjustifiable,” warning it directly endangers thousands of companies and up to 100,000 jobs, according to the French Building Federation (FFB).

In a joint statement, the organizations denounced the sudden closure of the application portal, carried out without consultation. They argue that the meeting scheduled for Friday at the Ministry of Economy is now “pointless” and are demanding a direct audience with Prime Minister François Bayrou.

“Without stability, sustainability, or simplification of the scheme, installers, craftsmen, distributors, and industrial players are left exposed,” warned the sector. Energy renovation alone accounts for 30% of the activity of FFB member companies—an essential pillar in a construction market already reeling from a historic housing crisis.

Mobilizations on the Horizon

Tensions are rising across the industry. “Enough is enough,” declared Olivier Salleron, President of the FFB, who is considering roadblocks, protests, and even dramatic actions such as erecting cranes in strategic locations. He indicated that decisions regarding collective action will be made during the federation’s national congress on June 13. “We won’t just sit by and die in silence,” he said.

The same determination is echoed by Capeb, the union of building artisans. Its president, Jean-Christophe Repon, confirmed on franceinfo that a coordinated movement is being prepared to firmly express their discontent. “Small businesses, artisans—everyone’s up in arms,” he stated.

With the new housing sector already in freefall, the suspension of MaPrimeRénov’ could prove to be a breaking point for an already fragile industry.