A Hybrid Renewable Energy Powerhouse
Austria’s renewable energy landscape is poised for a transformative change as the Puespoek Group embarks on an ambitious solar photovoltaic (PV) offensive. The company’s new agricultural photovoltaic plant, Agri-PV Nickelsdorf I, marks a significant milestone in its mission to expand renewable energy capabilities.
This initiative not only underscores the Puespoek Group’s commitment to sustainability but also positions Austria at the forefront of the global renewable energy movement.
Spanning 13 hectares, the newly operational Agri-PV Nickelsdorf I showcases an innovative fusion of solar power production and agricultural land use. This groundbreaking plant, with an output of 14 MWp, is equipped with over 23,000 state-of-the-art solar modules. The facility generates enough clean electricity to power 4,300 households, demonstrating the potent capabilities of modern photovoltaic technology.
What sets Nickelsdorf I apart is its hybrid nature. Operating in conjunction with the Heidäcker Mönchhof wind farm, it creates the Puespoek Group’s first hybrid renewable energy power plant. This integration of wind and solar power optimizes energy production and showcases the potential of hybrid systems to advance renewable energy.
Nickelsdorf I also embodies ecological sustainability. The land beneath the solar modules is used for sheep grazing, demonstrating how renewable energy projects can coexist harmoniously with agricultural activities. This dual-use approach not only maximizes land efficiency but also supports local farming communities.
Nickelsdorf II: Expanding the Horizon
Building on the success of Nickelsdorf I, the Puespoek Group has already begun construction on another large-scale project: Nickelsdorf II. This ambitious venture will cover 53 hectares and is projected to deliver an output of 68 MWp—enough to supply electricity to approximately 23,000 households.
Scheduled for commissioning in 2024, Nickelsdorf II represents a significant leap in the Puespoek Group’s expansion of its solar power capacity.
Image: Collected
The company’s solar PV offensive extends beyond these projects. A key technological advancement is the introduction of large-scale battery storage systems, with the first integrated project expected to become operational by 2025. These systems will enhance energy storage capabilities, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply even when the sun isn’t shining.
A Visionary Leadership
Lukas Puespoek, Managing Director of Puespoek Group, encapsulates the company’s vision: “The planned expansion by 400 MWp by 2026 is a central part of our expansion plans. The combination of wind power, photovoltaics, and battery storage technologies makes the Nickelsdorf project a ‘super hybrid park’ and thus a pioneering project in the energy transition in Austria. The simultaneous use of the land for organic farming shows that renewable energies, nature conservation, and agriculture harmonize.”
This forward-thinking approach underscores Puespoek Group’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. By integrating multiple renewable energy sources and promoting synergy in land use, the company is setting a benchmark for the global renewable energy industry.
The Puespoek Group’s history in the renewable energy sector spans over 25 years. As an Austrian family business, its expertise covers the entire spectrum of renewable energy development, from financing and construction to operation and electricity marketing. The company currently produces enough clean electricity for around 275,000 households, solidifying its position as one of Austria’s largest private electricity producers.
The Agri-PV Nickelsdorf I and II solar projects represent a significant stride towards Austria’s renewable energy goals. By integrating advanced solar technology, battery storage, and sustainable land use, Puespoek Group is setting a new standard for hybrid renewable energy systems. As Austria continues to push for a greener future, the company’s initiatives will play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s energy landscape.
