German group RWE has announced the allocation of its community benefit fund to eight local projects led by associations in France for the year 2025. Totalling €120,000 ($126,420), the financial support is directly linked to the output of wind farms operated in the Normandy and Hauts-de-France regions.
Three wind farms behind the funding
The fund is financed at a rate of €2,000 per installed megawatt (MW), based on the capacity of operational renewable sites. The three wind farms — Catillon-Fumechon (21.6 MW), Catésis–Bois Marronnier (28.8 MW), and Ormesnils (9.6 MW) — represent a combined capacity of 60 MW across 16 turbines. These sites are located in the Oise, Nord, and Seine-Maritime departments.
The selected projects involve concrete actions such as purchasing a shared electric vehicle, energy renovation for low-income households, solar panel installation on public buildings, and restoration of local heritage. Other initiatives include environmental awareness campaigns in schools and natural site conservation efforts.
Projects selected for local impact
The selection process reviewed 31 proposals based on public-interest criteria, feasibility, and direct benefit to local residents. The winning associations will operate strictly within the geographical areas served by the relevant wind farms.
Funding will be granted through specific partnership agreements signed with each association. All projects are scheduled for implementation during 2025, in coordination with the local authorities involved.
Next call for projects to include two new sites
RWE plans to launch a new call for projects at the end of 2025. This next round will include two additional wind farms located in the Somme and Marne departments. The extension will expand the fund’s coverage beyond Hauts-de-France into the Grand Est region.
The fund is designed to operate throughout the lifespan of the wind farms concerned, with future allocations adjusted according to RWE’s expanding renewable portfolio in France. The initiative aims to maintain long-term local engagement around energy infrastructure.
