In this paper, a part of the results of a study realised in Chambery to develop the use of solar energy in small and medium European cities is presented. This analysis is based on the evaluation of the solar potential of the city, then a balance of saved energy and reduced emissions is established. In the second part of the paper, an application on a specific area of the city is realised by considering the technical feasibility and the specific constraints of the site. In the end? an economic appraisal is done to demonstrate the interest of renewable energy use in small and medium cities.