Valorem, SEM Partner on 16.4-MW Agrivoltaic Project

• Valorem and SEM SELER unite for a groundbreaking agrivoltaic project, merging agriculture and solar energy in Saone-et-Loire to drive sustainable innovation and land optimization.

Valorem, a French independent green energy operator, has announced a co-development agreement with SEM Saone-et-Loire Energies Renouvelables (SEM SELER) to collaborate on a new agrivoltaic project. This initiative will focus on a 16.4 megawatt peak (MWp) solar park, leveraging dual land use for agriculture and energy generation.

The agrivoltaic park will be located in Saone-et-Loire, a department in eastern France, aiming to enhance renewable energy production while supporting agricultural activities. This partnership is a significant step towards promoting sustainable energy solutions and optimizing land use in the region.

How will Valorem and SEM SELER's project impact renewable energy and agriculture in Saone-et-Loire?

• Dual Land Use Benefits: The agrivoltaic project will allow for the simultaneous use of land for both solar energy generation and agricultural production, fostering a model that maximizes the efficiency of land use and addresses the growing need for sustainable farming practices.
• Increase in Renewable Energy Generation: With a capacity of 16.4 MWp, the solar park is expected to significantly contribute to the region's renewable energy output, aligning with France's national goals of increasing green energy capacity and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
• Support for Local Farmers: The project will provide farmers with an additional income stream through leasing land for solar installations, potentially stabilizing their financial situation and promoting the economic viability of local agriculture.
• Enhancement of Agricultural Resilience: By integrating solar panels into farmland, the project can create microclimates that may benefit certain crops, potentially improving yields and protecting plants from extreme weather events.
• Promotion of Sustainable Practices: The association between renewable energy and agriculture exemplifies how traditional farming practices can evolve. This partnership is likely to inspire other regions to adopt similar agricultural innovations, promoting a shift toward more sustainable and eco-friendly farming strategies.
• Job Creation: The construction, maintenance, and operation of the solar park will generate jobs, both in the renewable energy sector and in the agricultural supply chain, contributing to local economic development.
• Educational Opportunities: The project may provide opportunities for research and education in agrivoltaics, enhancing knowledge in the field and potentially leading to further innovation in sustainable farming and energy practices.
• Reduction in Carbon Footprint: By generating clean energy, the agrivoltaic solar park will help decrease greenhouse gas emissions, playing an essential role in the fight against climate change and enhancing the overall environmental health of the Saone-et-Loire region.
• Community Engagement and Awareness: The visibility of the project and its dual function can foster greater community awareness and support for renewable energy initiatives, encouraging local stakeholders to participate in similar sustainable efforts.
• Potential for Future Expansion: This project sets a precedent for future agrivoltaic developments in the region, potentially paving the way for larger systems that integrate renewable energy with other forms of agriculture, further contributing to energy transition goals in France.