Zelestra has started construction of the Bellomo agrivoltaic solar plant in Modica, Sicily.
The company said the project is supported by a 10-year power purchase agreement with BKW that also includes the 6.5MWdc Ginosa solar plant in Puglia, which is already operational.
Bellomo is expected to avoid around 5,200 tonnes of CO₂ per year.
Zelestra stated that more than 80% of the fenced area will remain dedicated to agricultural use, combining sheep grazing, native pasture and a carob tree belt alongside tracker-mounted PV systems.
Improving System has been appointed as EPC contractor, with construction expected to support up to 80 local jobs.
Bianca Sarbu, managing director trading and origination at BKW, said: “We are pleased that the next step in our successful collaboration with Zelestra is now taking place in Sicily. The long-term renewables agreement between our companies provides a strong and stable framework for delivering clean solar power to Modica. At BKW, we are committed to advancing the energy transition in the Italian market and beyond.”
The project will also install more than 15 solar-powered light poles at rural intersections under Zelestra’s EmPowerS initiative in partnership with the Municipality of Modica.
Maria Monisteri Caschetto, mayor of Modica, said: “Any initiative that promotes our territory, without altering its identity, but rather building on it to look toward the future and a more sustainable world will always find us attentive and open to dialogue. The partnership with Zelestra came about naturally and spontaneously, not only because we share a common vision of a better world for future generations, but also for very practical reasons. The plant will be developed on land that will remain largely agricultural; it will be managed locally, and it will generate jobs and clean energy, improving overall conditions in the area. Finally, our collaborative agreement includes the installation of solar-powered street lighting at several rural intersections, enhancing road safety in areas with significant residential presence.”
Eliano Russo, CEO of Zelestra in Italy, added: “Zelestra’s growth in Italy continues to gain momentum, with Bellomo now under construction soon after bringing Ginosa into operation. We are focused on delivering clean energy to BKW on time and on budget, while supporting skilled local jobs and rural development. As we work to double our pipeline in Italy this year, we remain committed to driving sustainable economic growth across the country.”
Zelestra said Italy is one of its fastest growing markets, with a current 1.4GW pipeline of solar and battery storage projects that it aims to double this year.