RWE Inaugurates Pierrières Solar Farm in France to Power 1,500 Households with Green Energy

RWE has inaugurated its Pierrières solar farm in Ardillières, Charente-Maritime, France. Developed in partnership with the local council, the project was launched in 2019, received its construction permit in 2023, and was selected the same year under the French Energy Regulatory Commission’s (CRE) technology-neutral tender. Construction began in late 2024, with power generation scheduled to start in summer 2025.

The solar farm spans four plots totaling 3.6 hectares and features 7,420 panels with an installed capacity of 3.37 MWac—enough to supply around 1,500 households with renewable electricity, including heating.

Located on municipal land, the project provides economic benefits to the community through annual lease payments and tax revenues. The site, previously unused, is now contributing to France’s low-carbon energy transition. Katja Wünschel, CEO RWE Renewables Europe & Australia, said,  “With the inauguration of the Pierrières solar farm, RWE is taking another step forward in its solar activities in France, where we have strong ambitions. Delivered in less than five years – from development through completion of construction and commissioning – , this project demonstrates our operational capabilities and the excellent collaboration with local stakeholders that has been  established throughout its development. ”

Olivier Denéchaud, Mayor of Ardillières added, “The Pierrières solar farm brings multiple benefits: built on a former municipal landfill, it will generate substantial economic returns for our community and its residents. It also enables us to launch new projects, such as the renovation of municipal buildings — particularly our school.”