Portuguese energy group EDP, through its subsidiary EDP Renewables, has inaugurated a 10 MWc photovoltaic power plant in the province of Salerno, southern Italy. Named Monti di Eboli, the site is EDP’s first European project designed to combine solar electricity generation with pastoral activity on a single site, integrating around 17,000 solar panels and a flock of 250 sheep.
Annual output expected to reach 17 GWh
Equipped with mobile photovoltaic structures, the panels can be oriented according to sunlight to optimise energy yield. The plant is expected to generate around 17 GWh of electricity per year, equivalent to the consumption of 6,500 households. This output would also prevent more than 7,200 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.
The sheep grazing contributes operationally by limiting vegetation growth beneath the panels, reducing the need for mechanical mowing and associated costs. This approach also helps preserve ground cover during drought periods, offering a balance between agricultural use and energy production.
Model rollout across other European markets
EDP plans to replicate this hybrid model in other European countries, particularly France and Germany. Several projects are already under development. The company is extending its strategy of deploying solar plants combined with agricultural or pastoral activities, aiming to enhance the multifunctional use of land.
Active in Italy since 2010, EDP currently operates nearly 600 MW of renewable infrastructure, including wind and solar assets. Since 2019, it has strengthened its activity in decentralised generation for professional clients, with a contracted capacity of 150 MWc.
Local expansion through solar systems in schools
In parallel with the main project, EDP is planning to install two decentralised solar systems in public schools in the Salerno province. These plants, with a combined capacity of 0.2 MWc, will generate more than 300 MWh per year. The electricity produced will allow the schools to partially cover their energy needs through locally generated power.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by EDP representatives, including Chief Executive Officer Miguel Stilwell d’Andrade, along with regional authorities. This rollout is part of a broader strategy to optimise land use by integrating mixed-use energy projects in southern Italy.
