Has wind energy really stopped in France?

The common claim

Various German media and AfD politicians are spreading the news that a court ruling in France has banned the construction of new wind turbines and declared existing systems illegal. This representation has spread widely on social platforms such as Facebook, X, Telegram, TikTok and YouTube and has caused considerable uncertainty.

The examination of the facts

The ruling of the French Conseil d'État of March 8, 2024 refers to a formal error in the adoption of a noise measurement protocol for wind turbines. It does not say that wind turbines are illegal or can no longer be built. Rather, the permits are temporarily suspended due to a procedural error that is intended to be corrected through a public hearing. Existing plants are not affected by this decision and the French government is already working on a solution to the formal error. The construction and operation of wind turbines in France therefore remains legal and will continue.

Questions and answers about wind energy in France

Question 1: Has the construction of wind turbines been banned in France?
Answer 1: No, the court ruling only refers to a specific procedural error in noise measurement and not to a general ban.

Question 2: Does the ruling mean the end of wind energy in France?
Answer 2: No, the ruling has no impact on the ongoing operation or future expansion of wind energy in France.

Question 3: Why was the verdict misrepresented?
Answer 3: The misrepresentation could be politically motivated to stir up opposition to wind energy in other countries.

Question 4: What does the decision mean for existing wind farms?
Answer 4: Existing wind farms are not affected and can continue to operate.

Question 5: What's next for wind energy in France?
Answer 5: The operation and expansion of wind energy will continue as soon as the formal error has been corrected.

Conclusion

The rumor that wind power has stopped in France is a clear example of how information can be misinterpreted or manipulated to fuel uncertainty and opposition to renewable energy. It is important to question such claims critically and rely on verified sources. Stay informed and question information before sharing it.

Source: afp

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