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Renewable energies

A pioneering territory

Thanks to the Durance river and the Serre-Ponçon hydroelectric dam, the Hautes-Alpes is one of Europe’s top 5 regions in terms of renewable energy potential. The département is pushing its advantage by multiplying its initiatives in this field.

SEM Énergie Hautes-Alpes
a strategic tool

The creation of a semi-public company dedicated to renewable energies marked a turning point. This company brings together local authorities and private investors to manage renewable energy production projects. For example, it is responsible for the development of local hydroelectric power plants, as well as solar farms and biomass heating plants. Its role is twofold: to ensure that projects are accepted by local residents and that the economic value remains in the area.

Emblematic
projects in progress

Solar power is gaining momentum. Photovoltaic panels have been installed at the department’s 3 airfields, transforming these infrastructures into electricity producers. On the mountain side, the resorts of Serre Chevalier and Les Orres are pioneers: the former has implemented an energy mix integrating solar, micro-hydro and biomass to aim for self-sufficiency, while the latter is testing innovative solutions to reduce consumption and cover part of its needs with solar power.

Setting an example
even in the refuges

Energy innovation is not limited to large-scale infrastructure. In the Alps, several mountain refuges, such as Chamoissière and l’Alpe de Villar-d’Arène, stand out for their self-sufficiency: a combination of solar panels, small wind turbines, micro-hydroelectricity and battery storage. This equipment reduces the ecological footprint while offering comfort and safety to visitors, illustrating the Hautes-Alpes ‘ ability to combine tourist appeal with environmental excellence.


in figures

7%
Share of annual sales
8%
Share of GDP

ANNUAL SALES426 941 K€
DEVELOPMENTS IN 10 YEARS50 %
GDP185 099 K€
CHANGE IN GDP55 %

GDP = Gross Domestic Product / Source: INSEE

Need support?

The Economy Department
supports your projects

Fabien Harel

Head of Economics

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