Q Energy has successfully commissioned Europe’s largest floating solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in Perthes in the Haute-Marne region of France. This 74.3 megawatt (MW) Les Ilots Blandin solar plant underscores the growing importance of floating solar technology.
Floating solar plants, unlike traditional solar farms, are built on bodies of water, which can help reduce land use conflicts and take advantage of unused water surfaces. This innovative approach also contributes to the cooling of solar panels, potentially increasing their efficiency, and limits water evaporation.
The plant spans 127 hectares (~313 acres) and is situated on a former gravel extraction pit, now converted into a reservoir. It consists of over 135,000 PV modules with an installed capacity of 74.3MWp. A 2MW ground-mounted solar system was added to the site to increase total energy output and economic efficiency. The site will generate enough power for about 37,000 people annually, thereby contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions in the region.
Ciel & Terre handled the floating structures and inverters, Perpetum was responsible for electrical procurement and construction of the ground-mounted array, and Solutions30 oversaw cabling, grid connection, and commissioning.
Q Energy and Velto Renewables picked the former industrial site to build the floating solar technology and spent several years planning. The plant’s construction, which began in September 2023, was executed with careful environmental considerations to minimize its ecological footprint. Q Energy implemented stringent measures to preserve local biodiversity and water quality. These efforts exemplify the company’s dedication to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
France is increasingly turning to renewable energy solutions to meet its climate commitments and energy demands. Projects like this not only support these goals but also stimulate the local economy by creating jobs during the construction phase and beyond. The involvement of local contractors and workforce signals a positive economic impact on the region.
The successful commissioning of this floating solar plant in June 2025 reflects a broader trend in Europe towards diversified renewable energy sources, especially where land availability is limited. France, in particular, is at the forefront, with floating solar projects helping to enhance the country’s energy resilience and transition to a low-carbon future.
Q Energy’s achievement sets a precedent for similar projects in Europe and potentially beyond. Emphasizing the integration of innovative renewable solutions, the project demonstrates the potential of floating PV technology in contributing significantly to energy needs while respecting environmental constraints.
Renewable energy made up 24.2% of France’s total electricity generation in 2022, largely from hydropower and wind. Solar could help the country reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.
In summary, the commissioning of this floating solar plant is a crucial step in Europe’s renewable energy landscape. It showcases a commitment to sustainable practices and highlights the potential of floating solar technology in contributing to global energy solutions.
Sources:
Q Energy powers Europe’s ‘largest’ 74.3MW floating PV plant in France
Largest Floating Solar Farm in Europe Begins Operations
Photo Credit: Q Energy
Video Credit: Ciel & Terre
