Tax credits for houses that use renewable energy have sparked a boom in demand for wood-burning stoves, solar-paneling for houses and even mini-wind turbines. Last year, demand for wood-burning stoves jumped 127% while solar heating panels and wind turbines were up 70% and 90% respectively. As of 2005, householders could off-set up to 40% of the cost of the equipment to use renewable energy sources against their tax bill. As of Jan 2006, this was topped up to 50%.
While France boasts some strong manufacturers in the domain, there is a clear shortage of choice for the French consumer.
Demand is expected to remain buoyant as there is much catching up to do as French households have not benefited from fiscal incentives in the past. Reflecting this, the annual French trade show on renewable energy (15-17 June, in Paris) will have a major focus on current solutions available to households wishing to choose renewable energy. Energy consumption by households is estimated to be responsible for 25% of green house gas emissions in France.
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