Witznitz ushers in a new era with Europe's largest solar farm
In Witznitz, Saxony, in eastern Germany, the largest solar farm in Europe has started operating. It spans an impressive area of about 1,235 acres and boasts more than a million panels.
26 April 2024 13:53
1.1 million photovoltaic modules were installed throughout the execution of this remarkable project. The solar installation extends across 500 hectares (approximately 1,235 acres). The generated electricity will be sold to Shell Energy Europe under a long-term power purchase agreement, marking a crucial step towards realising the energy strategy.
On the grounds of the former open-cast lignite mine in Witznitz, the power plant was constructed, and recreational infrastructure, including bicycle and equestrian trails, has begun development. This project is a component of a wider ambition to establish the Witznitz Energy Park. An intriguing part of the project is the initiative by Hansainvest Real Assets aimed at pioneering agrophotovoltaics technology on the site of the plant, allocating about 12-25 acres for photovoltaic panels.
Claiming the title of the largest photovoltaic farm in Europe, the Witznitz farm has surpassed the former leader, the Francisco Pizarro Photovoltaic Plant, owned by the Iberdrola group. Echoing the Spanish project, the German installation also embraces the concept of agrophotovoltaics, demonstrating the harmonious coexistence of energy production and the natural environment by blending agricultural activities with photovoltaic panels.
