The Croix de l’Érable wind farm, developed by Q ENERGY, was recently inaugurated in the Vienne region of France. This 12MW project, comprising four wind turbines, is the fruit of close collaboration with local elected representatives and the commune. Initiated in 2013, it represents a significant step in the department’s energy transition. With enough production capacity to supply more than 16,800 people each year, it will help reduce CO2 emissions by 16,400 tonnes a year. Benjamin Ploux, Regional Wind Manager at Q ENERGY, emphasized the importance of this inclusive approach: “The success of the Croix de l’Érable wind farm lies in its collaborative approach with local elected officials and residents, who were involved from the earliest stages of the project. Their commitment and support were essential to making this project a reality.”
Local Acceptance and Support
Local acceptance of the project was a key factor in its success. Of the nine communes concerned, seven expressed a favorable opinion during the public inquiry. The absence of any appeal against the park’s administrative authorization is further proof of this support. Concertation initiatives, such as exhibitions in town halls and information sessions, facilitated communication and stakeholder buy-in. The project has also involved the educational world, with talks at the village school and the integration of the wind farm into educational programs such as Génération Transition. These initiatives have raised young people’s awareness of the challenges of the energy transition and renewable energy.
Environmental Integration and Local Initiatives
Q ENERGY has implemented a number of measures to ensure that the wind farm blends seamlessly into its surroundings. In collaboration with the commune and its elected representatives, 1,600 linear meters of hedges were replanted in partnership with a local integration association. In addition, landscaping around the village church and the installation of two picnic areas equipped with educational panels have been completed, offering a panoramic view of the wind turbines. These actions illustrate the relationship of trust and collaboration established between Q ENERGY and the local community. Benjamin Ploux commented, “Q ENERGY has already built three wind farms in the Vienne region, totaling 57MW, and we currently have three other active projects in the area.” Q ENERGY’s inauguration of the Croix de l’Érable wind farm marks a new stage in the Vienne region’s energy transition. This project shows how close collaboration with local stakeholders can lead to positive results for the community and the environment, while strengthening the region’s renewable energy production capacity.
