Q ENERGY France has surpassed the symbolic milestone of a one-gigawatt wind repowering portfolio under development, signing a new 300 MW partnership with independent renewable energy producer Nadara at the France Renouvelables National Conference. According to the company, this move strengthens Q ENERGY’s position as a market leader in authorised repowering capacity and third-party development, consolidating its role in France’s energy transition.

From Pioneer to Market Leader

Many of France’s existing wind farms are approaching the end of their economic lifespan after around 20 years of operation. Industry estimates suggest that, by early 2025, nearly 5.8 GW of wind capacity could be repowered in France, meaning roughly 3,400 turbines will need to be dismantled over the next seven years.

Recognising this potential early on, Q ENERGY has been a pioneer in wind repowering in France. The company first explored this field in 2016, defining the end-of-life strategy for its historic Souleilla-Corbières wind farm in Treilles, Occitanie.

Almost a decade later, Q ENERGY has built on that success, establishing itself as a key player in the French market. The company has entered into five partnerships with various plant owners, covering a total project volume exceeding one gigawatt, of which around 200 MW have already received permits, according to the company.

Ongoing Large-Scale Projects

Following the completion of the Souleilla-Corbières repowering in 2023, Q ENERGY is now dismantling and rebuilding two additional large-scale wind projects. The Cuxac wind farm in Cuxac-Cabardès, Occitanie, is being rebuilt on the same site, while the Marsanne wind farm in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is undergoing a more complex transformation, with turbines being relocated beyond the original wind farm boundaries.

“After six years developing the repowering business at Q ENERGY, I am delighted to celebrate this major achievement,” said Laurie Gilbert, Deputy Head of Repowering at Q ENERGY France.

“It demonstrates our ability to respond to new challenges, as we have not only adapted to new technologies, but also to a new way of collaborating and interacting. By consolidating our position as a leader in third-party repowering, we continue to assert ourselves as a pioneer in the development and popularisation of renewable energy in France, as we have been doing for more than 25 years.”