Spain-based Velto Renewables has completed the acquisition of what is described as “Europe’s largest ” 74.3 MWp Les Ilots Blandin floating solar power plant from renewable energy developer Q Energy, becoming the sole owner of the facility located in Perthes, Haute-Marne, France.
The company previously held a 50% stake in the project, which spans 127 hectares and includes more than 135,000 photovoltaic panels installed on floating structures, Q Energy said.
The floating solar plant generates renewable electricity equivalent to the annual consumption of around 37,000 people and avoids over 18,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
Les Ilots Blandin, regarded as Europe’s largest floating solar installation according to Q Energy, demonstrates the role of floating solar in converting unused industrial areas into renewable energy assets. Following the transaction, Velto Renewables will manage the long-term operation of the site.
The project is part of a broader portfolio being transferred from Q ENERGY to Velto. Earlier this year, the companies agreed on a long-term partnership that sets the framework for further project developments.