Boralex to restart 71.4-MW disputed wind project in France

Canadian renewables developer Boralex Inc (TSE:BLX) has obtained regulatory clearance to complete its 71.4-MW Moulins du Lohan wind farm in France’s Brittany region.

The company said on Friday that the Conseil d’Etat has taken a final decision to validate all the necessary authorisations for the project that was halted back in 2017. The move came after the scheme was legally challenged by the Protection of Landscapes and Aesthetics of France (SPPEF) over environmental concerns.

Boralex, which was originally granted permission for the project in February 2014, now aims to bring the wind park online in 2024, according to a preliminary schedule. The Canadian developer secured a 20-year contract for the scheme in France’s seventh call for onshore wind projects in November 2020.

The Moulins du Lohan plant is being installed in the Lanouee forest in Morbihan department. Its 17 turbines of 4.2 MW each are expected to produce enough electricity for about 35,000 local homes, once up and running.

Boralex noted that due to the project’s specific location, its plan includes reforestation of a 12.25-ha (30.3-acre) area that will compensate for clearing 11.4 ha of land for the wind farm. It also envisages measures to conserve the natural habitat and protect animal species.

Choose your newsletter by Renewables Now. Join for free!