France is the second largest energy market in Europe, surpassed only by Germany. Most of the French requirements for electricity are covered by nuclear and hydroelectric power plants, while alternative energy sources currently account for a little less than 17 per cent of the total demand.

However, the market is undergoing considerable changes at present, due, for example, to free and open competition and to France's commitment to living up to EU targets for renewable energy. As a result, the intention is for 21 per cent of electricity to stem from renewable energy sources by 2010. This plan would require wind turbines in France to generate between 5,000 and 10,000 MW, and the latest forecasts point to a figure in the region of 6,000 MW.

The installation of renewable energy systems is backed by subsidies and public support. This situation is expected to play a major role in the development of wind energy, as the people of France are still unwilling to pay more for energy from wind power plants.