Paris, February 3, 2021 – EDF Renewables, a leading player in the field wind and solar energy, launches construction of its first power plant floating photovoltaic, which will be built on a municipal water reservoir from Lazer (Hautes-Alpes). This project contributes to achieving energy development objectives photovoltaic systems set by the French government. It is also part of the Plan solar energy of the EDF group which aims to become one of the leaders in the sector in France, with 30% market share by 2035.
Located on the water reservoir of the Lazer hydroelectric plant, the floating solar power plant will extend over an area of 24.5 hectares, covering approximately two thirds of the surface of the water reservoir, for a capacity of production of 20 MW. When it is commissioned in spring 2022, it will produce the equivalent of the annual electricity consumption of 12,500 inhabitants, thus adding to the production of the hydroelectric plant which is approximately the same.
Construction of Lazer begins today with the completion of geotechnical studies to probe the bottom of the reservoir. The installation of the anchors necessary for the installation of the floating panels will be carried out in spring 2021 and will be followed by the installation of the floats and photovoltaic panels. Lasting 13 months, the work will involve around 40 people on the site.
Initiated in 2017, the Lazer project was the subject of a dialogue with the region. Numerous technical and environmental studies have been carried out to ensure the preservation of the site's biodiversity and the continuity of electricity production from the Lazer hydroelectric power station.
Nicolas Couderc, France Director of EDF Renewables, declares: “We are proud to start construction of EDF Renewables’ first floating solar power plant, on the Lazer water reservoir. Thanks to this innovative technology, the same water retention will produce hydroelectricity and solar electricity: combining these two renewable energies constitutes an additional advantage in contributing to the renewable energy development objectives set by the government. The Lazer floating solar power plant also contributes to the success of EDF's Solar Plan. »
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About EDF Renewables
EDF Renewables is an international leader in renewable electricity production with installed wind and solar capacity of 13.2 GW gross worldwide. Mainly present in Europe and North America, EDF Renewables continues its development by taking a position in promising emerging markets such as: Brazil, China, India, South Africa and the Middle East. Historically active in onshore wind power and photovoltaics, the Company is now strongly positioned in offshore wind power and new technologies such as energy storage. EDF Renewables ensures the development and construction of renewable energy projects as well as their operation and maintenance. EDF Renewables is a subsidiary of the EDF group.
For more information: www.edf-renouvelables.com
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