After 10 years of development and consultation, and 10 months of intensive work, the Helfaut wind farm was officially inaugurated in September 2024. This ambitious project meets the annual electricity needs of more than 20,000 residents, covering the population of the communes of Helfaut, Blendecques, and Saint-Omer.
As part of the commissioning of the park, Boralex launched a crowdfunding campaign. This initiative was initially open to residents of the Saint-Omer agglomeration, then extended to the inhabitants of Hauts-de-France. Employees from the agencies and maintenance bases in Blendecques, Lille, and Abbeville were also invited to participate.
A special measure adds to this beautiful project
The tree exchange, organized in December 2024, was added to the major project. This operation aimed to distribute free trees and fruit trees to the residents of Helfaut. In addition to addressing concerns about the visual impact of the park, this initiative helps to enhance biodiversity and improve the communal landscape.
A landscaping project for everyone
Initially intended for a few sectors of the commune, the project was expanded to all residents of Helfaut, as well as the neighboring hamlet of Petit Bois in the commune of Pihem, totaling nearly 700 households.
The principle of the operation was simple: each household received a budget of 36 euros to choose from a wide variety of plants (linden trees, cherry trees, hazel trees, ...) offered to enrich the gardens and provide a new perspective on the park.
A local nursery for suitable plantings
Beyond the aesthetic goal, this operation also aimed to encourage the planting of trees and plants. To ensure the quality of the distributed vegetation, Boralex collaborated with a local nursery specializing in species adapted to the regional climate. All bear the "Local Plant" label, a guarantee of quality and sustainability.
A feedback event to conclude the operation
To conclude the operation and distribute the plants to the participants, residents were able to collect their kits on February 1st, 2025. Each kit contained the plants, as well as essential accessories for their proper development (stakes, protections, and compost). This event was also a great opportunity to reinforce the positive image of the initiative by offering a friendly moment conducive to the exchange of experiences among participants.
A project to renew in 2026 ?
This successfull first edition paves the way for a potential renewal next year. A huge thank you to the collaborators for their commitment and contribution to the success of this initiative!