The effects that the energy crisis has had on the relatively energy-intensive French agriculture are discussed in this paper for the period 1974-1984. The economic significance of energy in agriculture and the economic effects of higher energy prices are examined. An analysis is made of developments in the use of different sources of energy in the agricultural sector: savings in petroleum products used for heat production, diversification of fuel sources for heating, growing consumption of wood for space heating, and increased use of electricity. The effects of the energy crisis on France's agricultural economy, particularly with regard to farm income, the choice of sites for agricultural production, and trade in agrofood products are discussed. Finally, a detailed breakdown is given of the changes in the use of production factors, caused by the increase in energy prices. Agriculture appears to have become more economical or more efficient.