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Offshore winds harnessed for power generation in France for the first time

Saint-Nazaire offshore wind farm construction is in progress, bolstered by Groupe BPCE. As the appointed Lead Arranger, our site directed the collaborative activities of thebanking group's constituents...

France introduces its initial offshore wind energy facility
France introduces its initial offshore wind energy facility

Offshore winds harnessed for power generation in France for the first time

In a significant stride towards renewable energy, Groupe BPCE, a global leader in the wind energy sector, is supporting the construction of France's first offshore wind farm, the Saint-Nazaire Offshore Wind Farm. Located approximately twelve kilometres offshore from Saint-Nazaire, this groundbreaking project is expected to supply over 700,000 inhabitants with clean energy.

Eighty turbines, each of six megawatts, will be manufactured by GE Renewable Energy for the wind farm. This substantial investment underscores Groupe BPCE's commitment to the project and reinforces its credentials in the wind energy sector.

The construction of the wind farm is being coordinated by Groupe BPCE's various constituent companies, including Caisse d'Epargne Bretagne Pays de Loire, Caisse d'Epargne Normandie, Caisse d'Epargne Ile-de-France, and Banque Populaire Grand Ouest. Groupe BPCE has also financed numerous flagship wind energy projects in Europe, such as Merkur in Germany and Beatrice in the United Kingdom.

Vincent Régnier, the operational manager of the Saint-Nazaire Offshore Wind Farm, is overseeing the project's construction. Studies have demonstrated that the site for the wind farm is compatible with both environmental issues and sea users, ensuring minimal disruption to the ecosystem.

The electricity production from the Saint-Nazaire Offshore Wind Farm is equivalent to 20% of the total electricity consumption in the Loire-Atlantique. This operation is an example of Groupe BPCE's support for regional projects that promote the transition to green energy.

The construction, installation, and operation of the wind farm are expected to create up to seven thousand direct and indirect jobs. EDF Renewables is notably developing the project, further solidifying France's commitment to renewable energy.

Groupe BPCE's contribution to the Saint-Nazaire Offshore Wind Farm is 100 million euros. This investment not only propels France towards a greener future but also bolsters Groupe BPCE's position as a key player in the wind energy sector. The Saint-Nazaire Offshore Wind Farm is more than just a project; it's a testament to France's dedication to sustainable energy and a significant step towards a greener future.

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