Q ENERGY Begins Construction Of 11 MWp Chênet Solar Park In Marne, Set To Power 5,500 Homes And Cut 3,000 Tons of CO₂ Annually By 2026

Q ENERGY has announced the start of construction work on the Chênet photovoltaic (PV) park in the Marne region of France. Initial groundwork began in autumn and has already progressed significantly, marking a major step toward the realization of this 11 MWp solar facility. The plant is scheduled for commissioning in the summer of 2026 and, once operational, will be capable of generating enough green electricity to power approximately 5,500 households. This clean energy generation is expected to reduce carbon emissions by nearly 3,000 tons each year, supporting regional and national environmental goals.

The project site spans nine hectares and carries a long industrial history. Previously used as a gravel pit between 1992 and 2009, the land has remained unused since extraction activities ceased. Its transformation into a solar park gives the site a new purpose while contributing to the region’s sustainable development.

Beyond the production of renewable energy, the project was designed to deliver multiple local benefits. The host community will gain new tax and rental revenue, while the layout of the site has been optimized to support agricultural use—specifically, livestock grazing. A local farmer will be able to expand his operations by grazing animals on the land, with the solar modules providing natural shelter from the sun and weather. This dual-use approach ensures that the land is maintained naturally while simultaneously supporting rural economic activity.

According to Paul Colin, Solar Project Manager at Q ENERGY, the Chênet project demonstrates the positive potential of converting former industrial areas into productive spaces that benefit both the region and the environment. He emphasized that repurposing an already artificialized plot of land allows the company to balance renewable energy production with local economic impact and agricultural value. This approach, he noted, reflects a pragmatic and responsible development philosophy that encourages sustainable and shared growth.

The Chênet solar park also represents a milestone in local collaboration. While this is Q ENERGY’s first project in the Marne, the company has an established presence in the neighbouring Haute-Marne region, where it has developed over 300 MW of renewable energy projects, including what is considered Europe’s largest floating solar park. The experience gained in surrounding areas helped strengthen local confidence and foster a smooth development process for the new project.

Reflecting on the journey, Adèle Leprêtre, Regional Manager at Q ENERGY, noted that strong local engagement played a decisive role in advancing the project. She highlighted that transparent dialogue with elected officials and residents was key to securing authorization in just 12 months—a notably short timeframe for such developments. Completing the project’s development phase in only four years further underscores the effectiveness of this collaborative approach. She described Chênet as the result of a collective effort that supports the region’s ongoing energy transition and demonstrates what can be achieved when meaningful local partnerships guide decision-making.