German developer wpd solar France has initiated construction of the photovoltaic park in Marcy, located in the Nièvre department. With an installed capacity of 140.6 megawatt-peak (MWp), the facility will cover 187 hectares and generate the equivalent of the annual electricity consumption of nearly 78,800 people.
The company confirmed that commissioning of the site is scheduled for autumn 2026. High-voltage grid connection works are being carried out by grid operator Réseau de Transport d’Électricité (RTE), while construction of the transformer station has already been completed. The total duration of the works is estimated at approximately 15 months, according to wpd’s projected timeline.
A project based on agricultural co-activity
The Marcy solar park is characterised by a co-activity model combining energy production and livestock farming. Developed in partnership with Cryo, the project involves five local farmers who will conduct sheep grazing beneath the photovoltaic panels, while cattle farming will continue on surrounding land. In total, 632 hectares have been rehabilitated to allow for dual land use.
This approach required close consultation with local agricultural stakeholders to adapt the site’s layout to the terrain and preserve grazing capacity. The model implemented in Marcy could serve as a reference for similar regional initiatives.
Integrated environmental planning
In addition to its energy and agricultural components, the project includes a series of environmental measures. Wetlands on site have been preserved and enhanced, while forested areas and ecological corridors for wildlife have been maintained. These efforts aim to minimise the construction impact and support local biodiversity.
wpd stated that these actions are part of a broader partnership with Cryo and local authorities, who contributed to the site’s planning. The group expects Marcy to become one of the largest solar projects in France to combine energy production with the continuation of traditional farming activities.
