Peyrolles-en-Provence Floating Solar Farm

Omexom's Floating Solar Farm

In Peyrolles-en-Provence, close to Marseille, Omexom has transformed a decommissioned quarry lake into a floating solar farm for Boralex, a Canadian energy company. This innovative project houses 43,000 photovoltaic panels producing over 22 GWh annually, which equates to the annual energy consumption of approximately 25,000 residents.

Boralex's First Floating Solar Project

The solar farm, built by Omexom, spans 12.6 hectares and marks Boralex's first venture into floating solar technology. The construction began in May 2021 and was completed in seven months. In collaboration with VINCI Group companies, including Eurovia and VINCI Construction Maritime et Fluvial, the farm features advanced anchoring systems and floating units comprising 46,000 HDPE floats and 11,000 aluminum frames.

Renewable Energy on Degraded Lands

This project is part of a broader initiative by the French energy regulator to utilize degraded lands such as former quarries and brownfields for renewable energy projects. Omexom's innovative solutions, including submerged anchoring systems and flexible, water-level-adjustable connections, ensure the island's stability and environmental compatibility.

Lower Maintenance, Higher Productivity

Despite higher initial installation costs, floating PV plants like this one offer lower long-term maintenance costs and higher productivity due to the cooling effect of water. The panels, covering 30% of the lake, coexist with local recreational activities, minimizing ecological disruption while providing substantial green energy benefits to the community.