This paper presents the objectives, aims and methodology employed within the framework of the Action Plan for the Development of Wind Energy in the Canarian Archipelago (Spanish title: CANARIAS EOLICA 2000 or CE2000). A description is also given of the work undertaken and the results that have been achieved. The Action Plan was formulated in 1987 and four Action Areas were defined: (a) planning of the rational use of wind energy resources, (b) determination of the maximum energy potential that can be obtained from wind sources in the Archipelago, using all possible alternatives, (c) the design and building of hybrid and stand-alone systems for the use of wind energy in specific applications, and (d) promotion of the regional industrial sector and the opening-up of new external markets. With the implementation and completion of the CE2000 Action Plan now terminated, observations can be made regarding the correct initial approach of the plan, the successful attainment of most of the objectives that were proposed, the suitability of the methodology employed and the mistakes that were made in its execution. The CE2000 Action Plan, the principles and objectives of which meet the requirements of the European Union in energy-related matters, can be considered a model for possible implementation in other regions with similar resources and requirements to the Canary Islands. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.