Many of France’s new mayors pledge to switch streetlights back on at night

A growing number of newly elected mayors in France are moving swiftly to restore overnight street lighting, marking a shift away from energy-saving policies introduced during the 2022 surge in electricity prices.

In several towns, the return of public lighting has been framed as an immediate, symbolic act of governance, tied to concerns over safety, mobility and quality of life.

In Figeac (Lot), newly elected mayor Philippe Landrein announced within hours of taking office that streetlights in the town centre would be switched back on.

“From this evening, we will put the light back in the streets,” he told councillors during the first municipal meeting of his term, signalling a rapid move “towards action”.

Similar decisions have been taken elsewhere. 

In Torcy (Seine-et-Marne), the new municipal team confirmed that full-night lighting would resume across the town from March 30, reversing earlier cutbacks. 

The measure was presented as a response to residents’ expectations, particularly around security and everyday convenience.

Thousands of communes across France reduced or entirely switched off street lighting during the energy crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine. 

However, critics argued that darker streets increased feelings of insecurity and complicated night-time activity, from late work shifts to cultural events. 

In Torcy, local officials cited recent incidents where pedestrians leaving evening venues had to rely on mobile phone torches.

Torcy estimates the additional annual cost at between €15,000 and €20,000, representing less than 0.1% of its municipal budget. 

Has the public lighting blackout affected you or do you not mind the streets being dark? Let us know via letters@connexionfrance.com