Belgium Solar News – PVknowhow.com

Impressive Belgium rooftop solar Expansion at Willebroek

Oleksandr Pushkar — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 05:44:59 +0000

7C Solarparken Expands Rooftop Solar Installation in Willebroek

In a significant move to bolster its renewable energy portfolio, 7C Solarparken has announced a major expansion of its rooftop solar installation at the Nedcargo facility in Willebroek, Belgium. This project highlights the growing trend of leveraging large industrial rooftops for clean energy generation.

A Substantial Belgium rooftop solar Capacity Increase

The expansion project will add an impressive 3.7 MWp of new capacity to the existing 1 MWp system. Once completed, the total capacity of the rooftop installation will reach 4.7 MWp, making it a powerful contributor to the local energy landscape.

The company has confirmed that the new extension is being built with high-efficiency solar panels sourced from Trina Solar. The construction is already in progress, and 7C Solarparken anticipates that the additional capacity will be fully operational and connected to the grid before the summer of this year.

Powering Local Operations and the Grid

The energy generated from the expanded solar array will follow a dual-purpose model. The primary off-taker will be the local site operator, Nedcargo, which will purchase the electricity directly to power its operations. This provides the company with a reliable and sustainable source of energy.

Any surplus electricity that is not consumed on-site will be injected into the public grid. This ensures that no clean energy goes to waste and contributes to the overall stability and greening of the regional power supply.

This project serves as an excellent example of a successful partnership between a solar energy provider and an industrial company, demonstrating how businesses can actively participate in the energy transition while meeting their own operational needs.

For more information and official announcements, please refer to the press releases on the 7C Solarparken website.

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Energy loans KBC: Unexpected Rise Despite Slow 2024 Progress

Oleksandr Pushkar — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:42:58 +0000

KBC: Rise in Energy loans KBC Despite Slow Progress

While Belgium’s overall progress on home renovations remains worryingly slow, new data from KBC’s loan portfolio reveals a growing appetite among homeowners to invest in energy efficiency. This contrast highlights both a promising trend in consumer behavior and the significant systemic challenges that lie ahead in the nation’s green transition.

A Surge in Green Financing with Energy loans KBC

An analysis of KBC’s lending activity in 2025 shows a clear and significant shift towards sustainable home improvements. The number of energy-specific loans surged by an impressive 19%. This growth was driven by remarkable increases in financing for specific technologies, with loans for home batteries skyrocketing by 160% and those for heat pumps rising by 30%.

This trend isn’t limited to purely energy-focused projects. The total number of new renovation loans also increased by 14% in 2025, indicating a broader willingness among KBC customers to invest in upgrading their properties. These figures suggest that, when financing is accessible, homeowners are increasingly motivated to make their homes more sustainable and energy-efficient.

Belgium’s Broader Renovation Challenge and Energy loans KBC

However, this positive momentum within KBC’s customer base stands in stark contrast to the national picture. According to a KBC research report, Belgium’s renovation pace is far too slow to meet its climate targets. The country lags significantly behind its European peers, with just over 10% of homes heated or cooled by renewable energy sources, compared to an EU27 average of around 25%.

At the current rate, meeting the 2050 energy goals seems unlikely. Achieving this target would require a staggering total investment of approximately 350 billion euros. Macro-level data further underscores this slowdown; the number of consumer loans for energy-efficient renovations across the country fell from a peak of 61,000 in 2022 to just 31,000 in 2024.

A key barrier is financial capacity, particularly for lower-income households who often reside in the most energy-inefficient buildings. For many, undertaking comprehensive energy renovations remains financially out of reach, even with available subsidies and loan options.

Bridging the Affordability Gap with Energy loans KBC

Recognizing these financial hurdles, especially for those entering the property market, KBC has taken steps to improve accessibility. At the end of 2025, the bank introduced a new financing solution aimed at first-time buyers. This allows them to borrow up to 100% of the property’s value, addressing the dual challenge of needing sufficient equity for a down payment while also facing immediate and often mandatory renovation costs to meet energy standards.

While individual initiatives and consumer demand are crucial drivers of change, the disparity between KBC’s loan growth and the national renovation rate is telling. It signals that while the will to invest exists, broader structural and financial support is essential to accelerate the pace of change needed to meet Belgium’s long-term environmental commitments.

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Fluvius digital meter rollout: Ultimate Phase Starts in ’24

Oleksandr Pushkar — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:22:53 +0000

Flemish grid operator Fluvius is advancing into the conclusive stage of its ambitious digital meter rollout, a cornerstone project for modernizing the region’s energy grid. This massive undertaking is integral to the evolution of the Belgium solar market, paving the way for a more intelligent and responsive energy infrastructure.

Significant Milestones Reached Ahead of Fluvius digital meter rollout: Ultimate Phase Starts in ’24

Since its launch in 2019, the program has achieved remarkable progress. By late 2025, an estimated 80% of all customers in Flanders, representing 2.95 million electricity meters, had been equipped with digital technology. The adoption rate among prosumers with solar panels is even more striking, with 89% (approximately 925,000 homes and businesses) having made the switch by September 2025. This rapid conversion saw the number of remaining solar installations needing an upgrade plummet from 403,000 at the start of 2025 to just 58,000 by year’s end.

The Final Phase: Targeting Complexity and Completion by 2029

Fluvius is now gearing up for the project’s most intricate phase, set to begin in early 2026. This final leg of the rollout targets the remaining 20% of connections—about 1.25 million electricity and gas meters combined. The focus will primarily be on customers without solar panels, many of whom have older connections that necessitate more complex renovation work. Consequently, the completion of this final phase is slated for mid-2029. It is also important for some solar owners who installed systems between 2014 and 2020 to note that the deadline for retroactive investment grant applications is the end of 2025.

Enabling a Smarter, Greener Energy System

These digital meters are more than a convenience; they are the technological backbone of a smarter grid. By transmitting consumption data daily or quarterly, they provide the high-resolution visibility needed to manage fluctuating energy flows from renewable sources. This capability is crucial for seamlessly integrating everything from residential solar rooftops to large-scale developments like the new solar park at the Ostend-Bruges airport. This strategic upgrade empowers consumers with detailed insights into their energy use while enhancing grid stability, a challenge shared globally as nations like Vietnam pursue aggressive renewable energy goals.

Future-Proofing Flanders’ Energy Infrastructure

With the elimination of manual meter readings, customers now receive monthly updates, fostering greater awareness and control over their energy costs. Looking ahead, Fluvius is already planning for the next generation of meter renewals, ensuring the technology remains state-of-the-art. This long-term vision, supported by partners like Landis+Gyr through 2034, reflects the continuous innovation in the energy sector, from the core principles of solar panel production to the advanced machinery in today’s gigafactories. By completing this foundational project, Flanders solidifies its position to achieve its clean energy targets and embrace a more sustainable future. For those interested in the technology driving this change, a free solar energy e-course can provide deeper insights.

Sources

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Hydrogen solar park Belgium: Unique Project Set for 2026

Oleksandr Pushkar — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:17:10 +0000

Belgium is set to launch the world’s first commercial hydrogen solar park by 2026, marking a significant milestone in renewable energy innovation. Located at the future solar park in Namur, within the Wallonia region, the 10-hectare site will utilize advanced Belgian Solhyd technology to produce green hydrogen directly from sunlight. This groundbreaking project is expected to produce 1.2 MW of green hydrogen and 3 MW of solar energy, supplying clean, stable power to around 2,000 homes. This development is a key highlight in the latest Belgium Solar News Archives – PVknowhow.com.

Hydrogen Solar Park Belgium: Storing Energy for the Future

The primary innovation of the Namur park lies in its ability to solve one of renewable energy’s greatest challenges: intermittency. The park will store surplus solar energy captured during the day by using it to produce green hydrogen through electrolysis. This stored hydrogen can then be converted back into electricity on demand. With a capacity to store energy for up to 10 days, the facility ensures a reliable power supply even during extended periods of low sunlight, providing crucial grid stability.

The project is being developed by Be-Hy, a consortium of four energy companies, and is designed for seamless integration with the existing power grid. Excess electricity is transformed into hydrogen, creating a valuable energy reserve for peak demand periods or overnight. This dual-functionality positions the park as a pioneering model for future renewable projects and showcases the evolution of the solar panel manufacturing process toward integrated energy systems. It joins other innovative initiatives, such as the large-scale solar parking Belgium project, in demonstrating the country’s commitment to creative green energy solutions.

EU Support and Funding for Green Hydrogen solar park Belgium Projects

The European Union has been a strong advocate for green hydrogen, viewing it as essential for achieving its strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy. The EU has set an ambitious target to produce 10 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen by 2030, allocating significant funding to advance hydrogen technologies. For homeowners and tenants in Germany and across the EU, such projects contribute to greater European energy security and can help stabilize energy prices in the long term.

Belgium is a key player in this transition, reflecting the country’s impressive Belgium renewable energy: Impressive Surge in 2025. The nation has committed to installing 1 GW of electrolysis capacity by 2030 as part of its contribution to the EU’s overall goal of 40 GW. These national ambitions are part of a larger climate plan, as Belgium Raises Solar Goals to 33.6 GW in New Climate Plan. The Namur hydrogen solar park is a practical and vital step toward meeting these targets, demonstrating Belgium’s leadership in renewable energy innovation. Achieving these goals will require a deep understanding of the basics of solar panel manufacturing and scaling up production with advanced solar panel manufacturing machines.

Belgium’s Hydrogen Solar Park a Milestone for Clean Energy

The hydrogen solar park in Belgium represents a pivotal moment in the global shift towards sustainable energy. By ingeniously combining solar power with green hydrogen production and storage, the park will create a reliable and dispatchable energy source that reduces reliance on fossil fuels. The success of this commercial-scale project is expected to serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives across Europe and beyond, accelerating the transition to a greener energy future.

As the world seeks viable models for decarbonization, projects like this demonstrate that a stable power grid powered by renewables is achievable. Scaling up these solutions will depend on sourcing sustainable solar panel raw materials and understanding the economics, such as a detailed solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown.

To learn more about the technologies driving the solar revolution, you can explore our Free E-Course on solar panel manufacturing.

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Stadium solar power: Stunning 1,000+ Panel Install

Oleksandr Pushkar — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:19:01 +0000

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M&T Bank Stadium Embraces Stadium solar power: Stunning 1,000+ Panel Install

In a significant move towards sustainability, the Baltimore Ravens are set to install a major solar array at M&T Bank Stadium. The project, featuring approximately 1,000 solar panels, underscores a commitment to reducing both energy costs and the strain on the local electrical grid. Approved by the Maryland Stadium Authority, this initiative positions the NFL venue as a leader in renewable energy adoption within professional sports.

A New Era for Sports Arenas: From Spectator Hubs to Power Plants

The Ravens’ project transforms the stadium into more than just a sports venue; it becomes a power-generating asset. The solar array will be strategically located on the stadium’s North Plaza, covering new building roofs and an expansive entry canopy. Luminous Solar Inc. has been selected to design, engineer, and install the comprehensive system, which will contribute directly to the stadium’s power needs.

This initiative is part of a growing trend of sports facilities leveraging their large footprints for green energy. While projects like the 400-panel installation at a Yorkshire football ground show the movement’s breadth, the scale of the Ravens’ project highlights an accelerating ambition in the sector. These venues are proving to be ideal candidates for distributed energy generation, turning previously passive infrastructure into active contributors to a cleaner energy grid.

The Technology Behind Stadium-Sized Solar

Executing a project of this magnitude relies on a sophisticated supply chain and advanced technology. The journey from raw materials to power generation is complex, starting with the fundamental principles of solar panel manufacturing. This highly technical solar panel production process transforms key raw materials like silicon into efficient photovoltaic cells. This is accomplished using specialized solar panel manufacturing machinery. While the initial investment outlined in a typical solar plant cost breakdown is substantial, the long-term benefits for an organization like the Ravens are undeniable.

A Global Shift Toward Green Infrastructure

The Ravens’ solar installation reflects a broader global movement where large-scale public and private infrastructures are being reimagined as hubs for clean energy. This trend includes ambitious projects like a unique $49M solar-powered airport in Burkina Faso and major private investments, such as the $38 million raised for solar energy projects across Africa. These efforts align with aggressive national policies, such as France’s robust renewable energy targets, which are collectively driving progress toward a more sustainable future.

By investing in solar power, M&T Bank Stadium is not only enhancing its own operations but also setting a powerful example for venues worldwide. To learn more about how solar technology can be applied on any scale, explore this free e-course on solar technology.

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Impressive Belgian solar canopy project hits 3.3 MWp

Oleksandr Pushkar — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:24:28 +0000

Borealis Powers Belgian Manufacturing with Innovative 3.3 MWp Solar Canopy

Sustainable Energy with a Belgian solar canopy

Borealis, a leading provider of advanced and circular polyolefin solutions, has successfully completed a landmark 3.3 MWp solar canopy project at its manufacturing sites in Kallo and Beringen, Belgium. This initiative transforms company parking lots into dual-purpose solar farms, generating clean energy while providing practical benefits for employees and visitors.

This innovative solar parking Belgium project features nearly 4,800 advanced bifacial solar panels. It is projected to generate 3,250 MWh of renewable electricity annually, directly powering Borealis’ operations and significantly reducing its reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

The solar canopy is a significant step in Borealis’ mission to enhance the sustainability of its solar panel manufacturing process. By producing a substantial amount of renewable electricity each year, the installation helps power the company’s energy-intensive operations at its Belgian sites, marking a tangible commitment to greener production.

Contributing to CO2 Emission Reduction

Beyond providing sustainable energy, the solar canopy will make a measurable impact on CO2 emissions. By generating renewable electricity on-site, Borealis will cut its carbon footprint by an estimated 550 tonnes annually. This project showcases how industrial sites can be reimagined to support environmental goals.

This reduction is a key component of Borealis’ broader sustainability strategy, which includes a firm commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The solar canopy project is part of a larger corporate goal to install 100 MWp of solar power capacity across its global operations, aligning with the growing trend of large-scale Belgium solar panels installations.

Borealis’ Commitment to Renewable Energy

This project is a testament to Borealis’ dedication to integrating renewable energy into its core operations. Undertaken in collaboration with ENGIE Sun4Business, the initiative highlights the power of strategic partnerships in achieving ambitious sustainability targets. ENGIE designed, built, financed, and will now operate and maintain the installation, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to renewable energy deployment that mirrors their own ENGIE Belgium solar milestone.

The project’s design is exceptionally clever. The canopies not only generate power but also provide sheltered parking for almost 500 cars and include charging points for electric vehicles. This multi-functional approach maximizes the value of the company’s existing land and enhances facilities for its staff. The use of bifacial panels, which capture sunlight from both sides, further optimizes energy generation from the available space, showcasing an understanding of the basics of solar panel manufacturing.

Borealis’ Long-Term Sustainability Goals

Borealis has set ambitious sustainability goals, and this solar canopy project is a significant milestone on its journey. The financial structure of the project underscores this long-term vision: Borealis will purchase 100% of the generated energy under a 15-year agreement, after which it will assume full ownership of the canopies, securing free renewable electricity for the remainder of the system’s lifespan.

As Borealis continues to expand its use of renewable energy, it sets a powerful example for the wider Belgium Solar Panel Manufacturing industry. The company’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and invest in smart, sustainable energy solutions demonstrate a profound commitment to environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility.

The solar canopy project at Borealis’ Belgian sites is a significant step forward in the company’s sustainability journey. By generating renewable electricity on-site, reducing CO2 emissions, and partnering with industry leaders, Borealis is making meaningful progress towards its long-term goals and a cleaner energy future.

To learn more about the fundamentals of solar energy and manufacturing, explore our free e-course.

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Europe battery project: Impressive 25 MW Phase Launches

Oleksandr Pushkar — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 04:30:02 +0000

Belgium is rapidly cementing its position as a leader in Europe’s energy transition, highlighted by the activation of major battery storage projects. One significant development is the first phase of a large-scale project in Bastogne, developed by Corsica Sole and the German company RWE, which is part of a planned 420 MWh capacity spread across three sites in Wallonia. This initiative runs parallel to another massive undertaking in Vilvoorde, showcasing the country’s aggressive push towards grid stability and renewable energy integration.

Mega-Projects: Bolstering Wallonia’s Grid with the Europe battery project

The project spearheaded by Corsica Sole and RWE has brought its first phase in Bastogne online, contributing an initial 140 MWh to the grid. The full project, set to expand to the municipalities of Balen and Herstal, will reach a total capacity of 420 MWh. This development is part of a broader European trend where nations are scaling up renewable infrastructure, much like the ambitious solar initiatives in Slovakia.

Elia, the Belgian transmission system operator, awarded the contract for this ambitious project, with Corsica Sole managing development and RWE overseeing battery operations. The initiative received crucial support from Banque des Territoires, the regional investment fund W.IN.G, and the Belgian company SOCOFE.

Simultaneously, another landmark project developed by ENGIE and Sungrow in Vilvoorde has connected its first 400 MWh phase to the grid. This battery energy storage system (BESS) is part of an even larger 200 MW/800 MWh plan, positioning it as one of mainland Europe’s most significant storage installations.

Technological Innovations and Environmental Impact of the Europe battery project

The Bastogne project is a showcase of advanced engineering designed for efficiency and safety. It features a hybrid cooling system that operates without water, a state-of-the-art fire protection system using nitrogen, and a sophisticated control system for optimal battery management.

Beyond its technical prowess, the project incorporates strong environmental considerations. The site will host a photovoltaic carport and a solar panel canopy, integrating solar generation directly into the facility. Understanding the solar panel manufacturing process reveals the complexity behind these installations. Furthermore, a dedicated biodiversity zone is being created, complete with a pond, insect hotels, and the planting of 200 trees to enhance the local ecosystem.

Contribution to Belgium’s Energy Transition through the Europe battery project

These massive battery projects are vital for Belgium’s shift towards renewable energy. Batteries stabilize the electricity grid by absorbing surplus power—for instance, on sunny or windy days—and releasing it during periods of high demand. This capability is essential for balancing the grid as intermittent energy sources like solar and wind become more prevalent. For homeowners and tenants in nearby Germany, such cross-border grid stability is crucial for ensuring a reliable and affordable power supply.

The trend of pairing generation with storage is gaining momentum across Europe, as seen in the planned Slovenia solar battery expansion. The growth of renewable generation, such as the impressive 85 MW growth in Slovenia, underscores the urgent need for these storage solutions.

Pascal Pierre, CEO and Co-founder of Corsica Sole, emphasized this role, stating, “This project will enable us to accelerate the energy transition by storing renewable energy and providing flexibility to the electricity grid.” The ENGIE project in Vilvoorde echoes this sentiment, with its completed system expected to power up to 96,000 households, demonstrating the tangible impact of such infrastructure.

These efforts are supported by significant government commitment. In March, the Belgian government announced a €1.5 billion investment in energy storage over the next five years, signaling a clear strategy to build a more resilient and sustainable energy future.

The successful activation of these initial phases in Bastogne and Vilvoorde marks a major milestone. With their advanced technology and focus on sustainability, these projects are set to play a pivotal role in creating a robust and green energy system for Belgium and beyond.

To learn more about the technologies driving this energy revolution, explore our Free E-Course on solar energy.

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ENGIE Belgium solar milestone: 100 MW Achievement is Extraordinary

Alange — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 05:02:00 +0000

ENGIE has reached a significant milestone, installing 100 MW of capacity from photovoltaic systems across 20 sites in Belgium. This achievement marks a substantial step in the company’s journey toward decarbonization and the energy transition.

Significance of the ENGIE Belgium solar milestone

Designed to meet the energy needs of its sites and surrounding communities, these photovoltaic systems reflect ENGIE’s commitment to renewable energy and reduced carbon emissions. To ensure efficient energy production and usage, the company has also integrated the installations with energy storage solutions and smart inverters.

This installation will have a notable impact on ENGIE’s energy infrastructure. With 100 MW of capacity, the systems are expected to produce a substantial amount of clean energy, contributing to the company’s overall energy mix and supporting its sustainability goals.

The integration of energy storage and smart inverters is particularly significant, ensuring a steady and reliable supply by optimizing how energy is produced, stored, and used.

Technological Advancements Driving the ENGIE Belgium solar milestone

To enhance the performance of its photovoltaic systems, ENGIE has implemented advanced technologies like bifacial solar panels. These panels can capture sunlight from both sides, increasing energy production and making the most of available light.

The company is also using sun-tracking systems to further optimize energy capture. By adjusting the position of the solar panels to follow the sun’s path throughout the day, these systems ensure the panels receive maximum sunlight and boost their energy output.

Energy storage is another key technology, allowing excess power generated during peak sunlight to be stored. This energy can then be deployed during periods of low production or high demand, ensuring a consistent supply. At the same time, smart inverters play a vital role by managing and optimizing energy flow, ensuring the photovoltaic systems operate at peak efficiency.

Future Plans and Sustainability Goals After the ENGIE Belgium solar milestone

The 100 MW milestone is just the beginning for ENGIE’s broader sustainability goals. The company plans to continue expanding its renewable energy portfolio with more photovoltaic systems in the coming years, as part of its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and supporting the global energy transition.

These future plans will be driven by a strong focus on innovation and technology. ENGIE aims to continue exploring new solutions to enhance the efficiency and performance of its renewable energy projects, a commitment that will keep the company at the forefront of the energy transition.

ENGIE’s dedication to sustainability is clear in its long-term goals to reduce its carbon footprint and promote clean energy. This 100 MW milestone is a testament to those efforts, and as the company continues to invest in renewables, it will play an important role in the global fight against climate change.

Market Impact of the ENGIE Belgium solar milestone

The photovoltaic systems are expected to positively impact the local energy market. By increasing the availability of clean energy, ENGIE is helping reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, a shift that will contribute to lowering carbon emissions in the region.

The project’s integrated energy storage solutions are key to grid stability. By balancing supply and demand, they help ensure the grid remains reliable, even as the share of renewables increases.

Advanced technologies like bifacial solar panels and smart inverters also contribute directly to market efficiency. By maximizing energy production, these systems help create a more reliable and cost-effective energy supply for the region.

ENGIE’s achievement of 100 MW of photovoltaic capacity is a significant milestone on its sustainability journey. The use of advanced technologies and integrated energy storage sets a new standard for renewable energy projects, and this development is poised to positively impact the local market while contributing to the global fight against climate change. As ENGIE continues to expand its renewable portfolio, it will play an essential part in the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

For more insights into Belgium’s solar energy landscape, including the recent decision to allow plug-in solar panels and batteries, visit Plug-in Solar Panels Now Allowed in Belgium – pvknowhow.com. You can also explore market insights on Belgium solar panel manufacturing here.

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Plug-in Solar Panels Now Allowed in Belgium

Fuad — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 14:31:33 +0000

Belgium is set to democratize solar energy access, officially legalizing the connection of plug-and-play solar panels and small batteries to the national electricity grid starting April 17, 2025. This landmark decision marks a significant shift in the country’s energy policy, empowering homeowners and renters alike to participate directly in the green transition.

Plug-in Solar Panels Now Allowed in Belgium: New Regulations

The change is driven by a crucial amendment to the C10/11 technical prescription, a document managed by Synergrid, the federation of Belgium’s electricity and gas network operators. Following a public consultation period earlier this year, the revised rules were submitted in July to the country’s regional energy regulators—VREG in Flanders, CWaPE in Wallonia, and Brugel in Brussels—for final approval. The updated framework is expected to be published by November 2024.

To ensure grid stability and user safety, all plug-in devices must undergo a new certification process, known as C10/26. Synergrid will begin accepting applications from manufacturers on October 17, 2024, with the first list of approved products scheduled for publication on January 17, 2025. This gives consumers and suppliers a clear three-month window before the systems are officially permitted for use.

Safety, Certification, and Market Readiness

The C10/26 certification will enforce strict safety standards. Certified equipment must include features like automatic disconnection from the grid during a power outage and comply with existing EU CE standards and Belgium’s General Regulations on Electrical Installations (GREI). Synergrid has emphasized that “Manufacturers, importers, and distributors must ensure their devices are safe and come with clear operating instructions.”

This regulatory clarity has already spurred market activity. Companies like Belga Solar have announced the launch of compliant 800W plug-and-play solar kits, which will be available to consumers on the day the new law takes effect. This move is particularly beneficial for residents in apartments or rented accommodations, who can now install solar systems on balconies or in gardens without complex installations.

A European Trend

Belgium’s policy update aligns with a broader European movement towards accessible, small-scale solar generation. The EU’s Electricity Market Directive encourages the adoption of mini-PV systems under 800W, and by 2025, these devices will be legal in 25 of the 27 member states. This initiative is expected to accelerate solar adoption across the continent, as highlighted in a recent report by SolarPower Europe.

The new regulations are poised to build on Belgium’s existing solar achievements. The nation surpassed 10 GW of installed solar capacity by the end of 2023, and the introduction of user-friendly, plug-in systems is expected to significantly boost residential solar uptake and support the country’s climate and energy objectives.

Sources

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€40 Million Solar Carport Powers Belgian Wildlife Park

Fuad — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 15:59:33 +0000

A new benchmark in sustainable infrastructure has been set at Belgium’s Pairi Daiza wildlife park, which recently inaugurated the world’s largest wooden solar carport. The massive 40 MW structure, located in Brugelette, Hainaut, represents a significant €40 million clean energy project developed by Belgian firm Perpetum Energy.

Spanning an impressive 200,000 square meters, the carport is a feat of both engineering and environmental commitment. The park specifically requested the use of 100% natural and renewable materials for the project. In collaboration with partner Préfabois, Perpetum Energy constructed the facility using class-4 Douglas fir sourced from PEFC-certified forests in the Ardennes, a choice that minimizes raw material waste and reduces gray energy consumption. The structure supports a vast array of 93,786 high-efficiency photovoltaic panels, featuring a mix of TOPCon bi-facial models from Longi and Canadian Solar.

The facility is designed to generate 39,800 MWh of green energy annually, which is sufficient to power approximately 11,350 homes. Currently, Pairi Daiza consumes a portion of this electricity for its own operations and exports the surplus to the public grid, effectively transforming the zoo into a major green energy producer. Grégoire Dewandeleer, general manager of Perpetum Energy, highlighted the technical complexity of the project, which required significant modifications to the main control cabin over three days to manage the park’s substantial electrical needs and the new generating capacity.

This ambitious undertaking was financed through a third-party investment model by the Green4Power SA fund, which is co-owned by Perpetum and Socofe. While the park currently exports a significant amount of power, this surplus is expected to decrease as future plans include the installation of electric-vehicle charging stations beneath the new carport shade houses. The Pairi Daiza project serves as a powerful precedent for integrating large-scale renewable energy solutions into public and commercial spaces, demonstrating how functional infrastructure can dually serve community needs and climate goals.

Sources for the €40 Million Solar Carport Powers Belgian Wildlife Park

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