1. Pilot community:
SAINT-ETIENNE-DE-LUGDARES
FRANCE
Population: 1016 inhabitants
Area: 162 km²
Address: Saint Etienne de Lugdares
Zip code: 7590
Phone: 0033 (0)4 66 46 65 84
Fax: 0033 (0)4 66 46 65 95
Mayor Marc CHAMPEL
e-mail: cma07@hotmail.fr
website:
The joint community of Saint Etienne de Lugdares is an average of 1030m high while the highest
peak is 1477 m but the relief is rather soft compared to the Massif around.
The region of St Etienne de Lugdares' has a legendary status, as the first victim of the Gévaudan
Creature in 1764 was registered there. Also the famous criminal “Papillon” (who escaped many times
from the penal colony in Guyana) was born in the region!
With two major activities, agriculture and forestry, the joint community was registered as 1600
inhabitants in 1890. Today's population is stabilized around 500 inhabitants, with mainly elders.
Highly preserved territory is demonstrated by two “Natura 2000” areas and many areas with
particular flora and wildlife interest.
Renewable Energy Sources
Now: The current wind farm consists of 11 turbines, for a total power of 18MW and two more
turbines will be set up (2,3 MW each) soon.
Future: A second park of 10 wind turbines is planned (23MW) as well as a wood boiler (1MW)
and public subsidies to support private initiatives.
Rational Use of Energy
Now: The House of renewable energy (set-up in an ancient flour mill) creates awareness among
the population. A survey on energetic expenses of the joint community was set-up.
Future: Improvements will be made in the buildings according to the recommendations from the
survey.