The Aéroparc photovoltaic plant, with a capacity of 42.2 MWp, has been commissioned by EDF power solutions in the communes of Reppe and Fontaine, located in the Territoire de Belfort. Consisting of approximately 73,000 solar panels, this installation will generate the equivalent of 40% of the annual electricity consumption of the Grand Belfort agglomeration community. The plant was installed on a historic site, a former NATO base, thus allowing the valorization of the land while supporting the region’s energy transition.
Work began in February 2023, following the granting of the building permit in December 2021, and was completed in October 2024. From the outset, EDF power solutions considered environmental issues by conducting biodiversity studies on the site. Sensitive areas, such as woodlands and ponds favourable to local wildlife, were avoided through specific marking put in place during construction. In total, six hectares of the 33-hectare site were preserved to protect these spaces.
The integration of sheep farming on the site allows vegetation maintenance without the use of phytosanitary products, thus promoting biodiversity preservation. This grazing practice is also in line with ecological challenges in the region.
The commissioning of this solar power plant generates economic returns estimated at 260,000 euros per year for the territory over its 30-year operational lifespan. EDF power solutions operates a total of 18 solar plants in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, with a combined capacity of 243 MWp, as well as three wind farms with a capacity of 57 MW.
Economic and environmental impact for the region
The Aéroparc photovoltaic plant is part of the regional strategy to meet energy transition goals. In addition to its ability to produce clean energy, it is integrated into a model of reusing industrial sites for low-carbon energy production. This initiative supports the policy of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region to become a positive energy region by 2050.
A large-scale project supported by local collaboration
Alexandre Margain, Regional Development Manager for Bourgogne-Franche-Comté at EDF power solutions, emphasized the importance of collaboration with local officials and SODEB (Société de Développement du Grand Belfort), the company in charge of developing the area, to successfully implement the project. This cooperation has transformed a historic site into a clean and sustainable energy hub for the region.
