Wedoany.com Report on Feb 25th, Q ENERGY has recently commenced construction of the Chênet photovoltaic park in the Marne region of France. This solar facility has an installed capacity of 11 MWp. The groundwork began in autumn and has already made significant progress. The project is expected to be operational by the summer of 2026. Once commissioned, it will produce enough green electricity annually to meet the needs of approximately 5,500 households, while reducing nearly 3,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year, contributing to regional and national environmental goals.
The Chênet solar park covers nine hectares. The site was previously a gravel pit used between 1992 and 2009 and had remained unused since operations ceased. Transforming it into a solar park not only gives the land a new purpose but also promotes local sustainable development.
Beyond renewable energy production, the project focuses on delivering multiple local benefits. The local community will gain new revenue through taxes and rent. The site design also optimizes agricultural use, supporting livestock grazing. A local farmer will utilize the land to expand operations, with the solar modules providing natural shade and shelter from rain for animals. This dual-use approach naturally maintains the land while boosting rural economic activity.
Paul Colin, Solar Project Manager at Q ENERGY, stated, "The Chênet project demonstrates the potential to transform former industrial zones into productive spaces that benefit both the region and the environment." He emphasized that repurposing already developed land helps balance renewable energy production, local economic impact, and agricultural value, reflecting a pragmatic and responsible development philosophy.
The construction of the Chênet solar park also marks a significant step in local cooperation. As Q ENERGY's first project in the Marne department, the company has an established presence in the neighboring Haute-Marne region, having developed over 300 MW of renewable energy projects, including one of Europe's largest floating solar parks. Experience from surrounding areas has boosted local confidence and facilitated the smooth progress of this new project.
Adèle Leprêtre, Regional Manager at Q ENERGY, noted, "Strong local engagement has been crucial for advancing the project." She mentioned that transparent dialogue with officials and residents enabled authorization to be completed within 12 months, and the project development phase took only four years, highlighting the efficiency of the collaborative approach. Chênet is the result of a collective effort, supporting the region's energy transition and demonstrating the positive role of local partnerships in decision-making.
