German developer BayWa r.e. has announced the commissioning of the Amance solar park, located in the Aube department, on behalf of the Klimavest fund from Commerz Real, its new owner. The site, with an installed capacity of 47 megawatt-peak (MWp), spans 42 hectares and has been feeding electricity into the French grid since 11 September.
The park’s production is estimated to match the annual electricity consumption of nearly 11,000 households excluding heating. The project was completed on schedule by the end of summer, as initially planned. BayWa r.e. oversaw the development, construction, and commissioning of the facility and will continue to manage its technical and commercial operations.
A strategic acquisition for Commerz Real
The Klimavest investment fund, managed by Commerz Real, acquired the Amance solar park in March. This move aligns with its strategy to allocate capital into mature green infrastructure assets. Michael Henn, Global Head of Green Deal Infrastructure at Commerz Real, stated that the success of the project highlights the reliability of the French market for renewable energy investments and the strength of local partnerships.
The collaboration with BayWa r.e. is based on a well-structured planning process and effective coordination with local agricultural authorities. The German company views France as a strategic market, with Amance representing the largest photovoltaic project it has completed in the country.
Agri-voltaic integration with sheep farming
The project’s integrated approach allowed for a combination of energy production and agricultural activity. A partnership was established with a local farmer whose flock now grazes under the photovoltaic panels. The rotational grazing system is supported by equipment provided by project partners, including watering systems, herd movement tools, and paddock fencing.
The panels also provide shade that protects both the pasture and the animals during high summer temperatures, reducing heat stress and soil degradation. This agricultural cooperation ensures natural vegetation maintenance while optimising land use.
