LONGi Drives Agrivoltaics Project in Colombia Together with Erco Energía

LONGi, a global leader in solar technology, has partnered with Erco Energía to launch an innovative agrivoltaic project at the Guamo & Numbana photovoltaic parks in Tolima, Colombia. The project integrates 50 sheep to naturally manage vegetation under the solar modules, combining renewable energy production with agricultural sustainability.

Additionally, the initiative focuses on empowering women from the region by providing training and employment in grazing and animal care. This model not only optimizes land use but also fosters economic development and promotes gender inclusion, making it a distinctive example of sustainable energy and community empowerment.

The integration of photovoltaics with agriculture, better known as agrivoltaics, has become highly relevant in the context of sustainability and climate change, as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes the integration and involvement of communities and food security.

In the case of Guamo & Numbana, the utilization of the 32.86 hectares of land is high, as approximately 44GWh of clean energy is produced annually in the same grazing area for 50 sheep.

“With this project, Erco Energía promotes the empowerment of women within the municipality’s economy, creating employment opportunities while providing a solution to the need to use agricultural machinery and agrochemicals that are harmful to the environment, through the implementation of sustainable practices such as sheep cattle farming,” said Santiago Celis, ESG Manager of Erco Energía.

“At LONGi we have a real commitment to sustainability, and we are proud to be part of initiatives like this. Under the mission of harnessing the best of solar energy to build a sustainable world, we are making a significant impact, together with our customers, in the welfare of communities and the environment,” said Hugo Fernandez, Country Manager Colombia.

LONGi will continue to promote projects that seek to find innovative strategies that allow the harmonious coexistence between technology and agriculture, prioritizing the involvement of communities to ensure the long-term sustainability of the projects.