EDF Renewables starts construction of 20 MW floating solar power facility in Lazer

EDF Renewables is launching the construction of its first floating photovoltaic facility, which will be built on a reservoir in the Lazer municipality (Hautes-Alpes department). The project will contribute to the achievement of the photovoltaic energy development targets set by the French government.

The 20 MW floating solar power facility, which will be built on a reservoir powering of the Lazer hydroelectric plant, will occupy a surface area of 24.5 hectares, around two-thirds of the reservoir’s surface. Project commissioning is scheduled for spring 2022. It will generate enough electricity to cover the annual consumption of 12,500 inhabitants, complementing the output from the hydroelectric plant.

Construction of the Lazer facility has started with geotechnical studies surveying the reservoir’s floor. The requisite anchor systems for the floating panels will be built in spring 2021 followed by the installation of the floaters and photovoltaic panels. Around 40 people will work on-site during the 13-month construction period.