Pioneering a renewable energy concept
In 2022, the VELUX Group signed two new virtual power purchase agreements with BayWa r.e. that will drive the development of two new solar (photovoltaic) PV parks in southern Spain.
When both projects are completed and connected to the grid, the solar plants will generate 167 GWh of renewable electricity annually. That is enough power to cover all the VELUX Group’s European operations today - and several years ahead - and it constitutes about 90% of our current global electricity consumption.
Enabling new solar plants is part of our work to achieve 100% renewable electricity and will help us reach the emissions reduction target for our global operations by 2030.
Deepening our commitment to climate and nature action
In addition to supporting the transition to renewable energy, the new solar plants are part of the VELUX Group’s ongoing commitment to communities, climate and nature action.
To ensure that the parks prioritise local nature and their communities, BayWa r.e. is working with two nearby universities to form an interdisciplinary research group. The findings of this group will be used to create comprehensive site strategies and action plans that can enhance biodiversity and foster community involvement.
Solar Plant Symbiosis
One of the solar parks will include a pioneering Agri-PV installation, combining energy generation and agriculture. The installation will be specially designed to allow for crops to grow between the solar panels. Rotational solar panels will be placed with wider spacing between them to enable farming machinery to pass. The photovoltaic modules can also collect rainwater, conserving valuable resources and enhancing the climate resilience of the crops.
Combining solar power production, agriculture, biodiversity and community is a concept we call ‘Solar Plant Symbiosis.’ Its ambitions stretch further than regulatory requirements with investments in improved biodiversity and collaboration with the local community and ensures the mutual benefit of all parties involved.
