Came across this group on my travels, quite a mature bunch by the look of it. They have a section called "Alternative Energy" which is quite interesting. There is even mention of "some guy in France ......his site is gone" ( wonder who that could be). Anyway I have posted this thread URL in the hope of some more input/interest.
edit : look at "New Project"
The URL for their Alt Power section is
Garden Railway Forum but the whole place is worth a look, as I said mature and also open minded.
Note : some of "us" are already members so no need to be shy.