Arles – 18.06.2026: Mayor Patrick de Carolis has initiated the “Appeal of June 18” to take a stand against the planned high-voltage power line project in the Camargue. He calls on the state to find “balanced solutions” that meet energy demands while protecting the environment. Opponents of the project, including local environmental organizations and citizens, demand financial efforts to route parts of the line underwater to minimize the impact on the landscape.
The controversial project foresees the construction of a 400 kV high-voltage power line running from Jonquières (Gard department) to Fos-sur-Mer (Bouches-du-Rhône department). The planned route of about 65 kilometers would pass through the Camargue nature reserve and require the construction of around 180 pylons ranging from 50 to 90 meters in height. Supporters argue that the line is necessary to secure regional electricity supply and support the decarbonization of the Marseille/Fos-sur-Mer industrial zone.
However, the project faces significant opposition. About 150 activists recently gathered in Arles to protest the plan, calling it “deadly” for the region. They emphasize the importance of the Camargue as one of Europe’s largest and most diverse wetlands and warn of the potential damage to the environment and local economy.
Patrick de Carolis, who is both mayor of Arles and president of the Regional Natural Park Camargue, has repeatedly expressed his concerns. He stressed the need to balance industrial development with environmental protection. In a previous statement, he said he understood the economic and ecological challenges of the project but found the proposed solutions “unacceptable.”
The discussion around the project has also taken on political dimensions. The Arles city council recently rejected a proposal for a citizen referendum on the topic, which led to further tensions. Opponents of the project are now calling for increased efforts to find alternative solutions that are less invasive to the environment.
Overall, the situation remains tense. While supporters of the project highlight the necessity of energy supply and industry decarbonization, opponents emphasize the importance of environmental protection and preserving the region’s cultural heritage. The coming months will be crucial to finding a solution that accommodates the diverse interests.
The debate over the high-voltage power line project in the Camargue highlights the complex challenges in balancing energy needs and environmental protection. It remains to be seen what compromises can be made to meet both ecological and economic demands.