The construction of the biggest solar farm in Italy to date has received approval from authorities in Sicily as European Energy sealed the building permit for the 250MW project.
Once operational, the plant in the municipality of Vizzini, near Catania, will generate renewable energy equivalent to the consumption of 130,000 household and save approximately 165,000 tons of CO2 annually.
“Italy is a key country and market for European Energy, and authorization for this project represents an important milestone for our company,” said European Energy chief executive Knud Erik Andersen.
“We have proven that we are capable of rolling-out large-scale renewable energy projects in Italy, and look forward to delivering another important solar farm for the benefit of the Italian community,” he added.
European Energy has already built several solar farms in Italy, including the 130MW Troia project in Apulia – which was the largest such site in the country when it was connected to the grid.
The Sicilian project has a strong focus on the sustainability of the land being used. In addition to renewable energy production, the facility includes a comprehensive reforestation and biodiversity program covering 200 hectares. This initiative will further enhance the environmental friendliness of the region and contribute to the support of biodiversity action.
The strategic choice of Sicily as the project location is rooted in its growing significance for renewable energy production, development, and interconnection at both the national and international level. The region’s exceptional high solar radiation combined with the utilization of cutting-edge photovoltaic technologies will maximize renewable energy production.
European Energy remains dedicated to employing the most innovative technologies to optimize energy production. Currently, the project is evaluating various solutions, including traditional photovoltaic systems, sun-tracking panels to increase energy yield and agrivoltaic systems that integrate electricity production with valuable crop cultivation.
Country manager of European Energy Italia Alessandro Migliorini added: “With this authorization, we take a further step forward in our strategic path in Italy, where we will continue to invest in renewable energy projects, mainly wind and solar, always linked to programs for the recovery of the cultural fabric or the development of the natural heritage of the territory where we build.”