Mailhac-sur-Benaize, October 31, 2023 – Located in the town of Mailhac-sur-Benaize, the plant with an installed capacity of 4.9 MWp is made up of approximately 8,850 photovoltaic panels. It produces the equivalent of the annual electricity consumption of around 2,700 people. This is the second solar power plant inaugurated in Haute-Vienne in 2023 by EDF Renewables.
In 2016, following a call for expressions of interest, the municipality of Mailhac-sur-Benaize entrusted EDF Renewables with the development of a solar power plant on this former uranium mine previously operated by Orano. Following the phases of studies, consultation, instruction and public inquiry, EDF Renewables obtained the building permit in 2020. The same year the project was the winner of a call for tenders from the CRE for an electricity purchase price over 20 years. After a year of work, the solar power plant was commissioned and is now injecting its production into the public electricity network.
With the installation of the power plant, the region will be able to count on new economic and fiscal benefits. Local companies were also mobilized, such as Socotec in Limoges or ENCIS Environnement in charge of environmental monitoring. From its branch in Limoges, the company Luxel, a subsidiary of EDF Renewables, will ensure the operation and maintenance of the plant.
From its design, the plant integrates environmental issues. On the one hand by offering a second life to an old uranium mine in order to produce low-carbon energy, for the benefit of the energy transition. Furthermore, from the start of the project, extensive ecological studies were carried out to determine and avoid areas or species requiring particular attention: the northern part of the site was thus avoided to preserve the habitat of the fauna present.
EDF Renewables already operates 17 solar power plants and 7 wind farms in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, for a cumulative power of around 213 MW. Other renewable energy projects are currently under development, notably in Haute-Vienne, with the Theil solar power plant, construction of which is scheduled to begin in 2024.
Mathias Armand, Limousin Regional Manager of EDF Renewables, said :
“ We are very proud to inaugurate the Mailhac-sur-Benaize photovoltaic power plant. This constitutes an additional brick in the development of renewable energies in Haute-Vienne, essential to meet the growing electricity needs. During its period of operation, it will also constitute a source of economic benefits for its territory through the rents and tax revenues which will be returned to it.”
Photo credit: EDF Renewables
About EDF Renewables
EDF Renouvelables is an international energy company that develops, builds and operates renewable energy production plants.
A major player in the world's energy transition, EDF Renewables deploys competitive, responsible and value-creating projects within EDF. In each country, our teams are engaged on a daily basis with the territories by putting their expertise and their capacity for innovation at the service of the fight against climate change.
At the end of 2022, EDF Renewables has an installed capacity of 11.4 GW net (18.5 GW gross) worldwide.
Mainly present in Europe and North America, the company is also developing in emerging markets such as: South Africa, Brazil, China, India and the Middle East. Historically active in onshore wind power and photovoltaics, the Company is significantly strengthening its position in installed and floating offshore wind power, as well as in new technologies such as energy storage, floating solar and agrivoltaics.
For more information : www.edf-renouvelables.com
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PRESS CONTACTS
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