We have a vacation home in France and ordered a heat pump from an electrician last year. We signed the quote and transferred the deposit to him. He was supposed to come the week before Christmas. He canceled. We wrote to him at the end of March to let him know that we’d be back in France at the end of April. He replied that he hadn’t finalized his schedule yet. The problem for us is that we have to drive a good 1,000 km, which he knows. Should we be persistent and keep checking in? Or should we wait for his reply? Does anyone have any ideas?

What nationality is he? Was there a SIRET number on the quote along with a copy of his 10 year insurance? .Did the quote include any deadlines?

The SIRET number is listed on the quote, but the insurance information isn't. The quote has since expired. However, the electrician didn't mention this in his emails or give the impression that he no longer wanted to do the job. He is French and lives with his family in the neighboring village. He was recommended to us by our real estate agent. We met his son as well. Neither of them gave the impression that they were trying to take advantage of us.

This is where it's useful to know neighbours well enough for them to hassle artisans on your behalf.
But even so, I now live 825 km (within France) from my family/holiday house, and it's a nightmare, trying to get artisans to come for various reasons. Even on-the-spot (French) neighbours aren't always successful....
As from now, mail/text your electrician for a RV for when you arrive, and if he doesn't reply, go knocking on his door to ask for the return of your deposit. And ask your neighbours to recommend another electrician....
HTH

Thank you dmu. Will try it that way.