Small wind turbines - Bibliographical note

Whereas France appears to be late in the reaching of its objectives of evolution of its energy mix, notably regarding the share of renewable energies, this report presents some general aspects and evokes the case of the Provence-Alpes-Cote-d'Azur region which has elaborated planning documents (SRCA, SRE) to address these objectives, more particularly in the field of wind energy with the development of small wind turbines. The report first defines and technically describes these small wind turbines (horizontal or vertical axis, mast type, power), and gives a general overview of regulations aspects (code of the environment, code of urban planning, certification) and of the wind resource. It proposes a presentation of the situation of this type of wind energy production (actors, returns on experience on wind turbines on gable, on calls for projects in the Languedoc-Roussillon and Rhone-Alpes regions, and some successful research activities which resulted in actual realisations). It proposes an overview of financial mechanisms and costs of the small wind turbine sector (financial support for individuals). Recommendations are finally stated