Zelestra, a global multi-technology renewable energy company, has officially inaugurated its first solar project in Italy. The project is a 6.5 MWdc agrivoltaic solar plant located in Ginosa, in the Puglia region. The inauguration event was attended by the Deputy Mayor of Ginosa, Domenico Gigante, the President of the Apulian Production District “La Nuova Energia”, Beppe Bratta, and Eliano Russo, CEO of Zelestra Italia.
This project is a significant milestone for Zelestra because it represents the first fully operational asset in its Italian renewable energy portfolio. It also marks the beginning of the company’s on-ground presence in the country’s energy transition journey. Along with this plant, Zelestra is also developing a much larger pipeline in Italy, which includes more than 1.4 GW of solar power projects and battery energy storage systems (BESS), reflecting its long-term commitment to the Italian market.
The Ginosa plant is designed to generate approximately 11.7 GWh of clean electricity every year. This amount of energy is sufficient to meet the annual electricity needs of around 4,000 Italian households. At the same time, the project contributes to environmental protection by helping avoid nearly 3,700 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, supporting Italy’s broader decarbonisation goals.
A key aspect of the project is its agrivoltaic model, which allows renewable energy generation and agriculture to coexist on the same land. The project has been developed in line with the National Guidelines issued by Italy’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security (MASE). The solar panels are installed at an elevated height, making it possible to continue agricultural activities underneath them. This approach ensures that land use remains productive while also supporting clean energy generation.
The construction of the Ginosa plant also had a positive local economic impact. More than 50 jobs were created during the construction phase, providing employment opportunities for the surrounding community. The engineering, procurement, and construction work for the project was carried out by Altenia, which is part of the Terna Energy Solutions Group.
In terms of environmental planning, Zelestra has implemented several measures to reduce the project’s impact on the surrounding landscape. The design of the plant prioritises low visual and ecological disruption while maintaining agricultural productivity and protecting biodiversity. Tree plantations have been developed around the perimeter of the site to integrate the plant into the natural surroundings.
Additionally, an environmental monitoring system has been established to continuously track soil, water, air quality, noise levels, and biodiversity. This monitoring is active throughout all stages of the project, including before construction, during execution, and after commissioning.The Ginosa plant is also part of a wider strategic partnership between Zelestra and BKW Energy. This collaboration has been formalised through a ten-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
Under this agreement, electricity will be supplied not only from the Ginosa plant but also from another agrivoltaic project, Bellomo, located in Modica, Sicily, which has an installed capacity of 9.5 MWdc.Speaking at the inauguration, Eliano Russo, CEO of Zelestra Italia, said that the Ginosa project represents the first electricity generation milestone for Zelestra in Italy.
He described it as the beginning of an important industrial journey in the country, built on continuous engagement with local communities and institutions. He also stated that the company will keep investing in projects that combine clean energy production with land conservation and local economic development.Deputy Mayor Domenico Gigante highlighted that the project reflects how development can progress without replacing agriculture.
He appreciated Zelestra’s investment in the region and its focus on young people and local opportunities. He also expressed hope that the project will encourage more companies to invest in the area, noting that the local administration is supportive of innovation and technological progress.Beppe Bratta, President of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Production District, said that the Ginosa plant strongly reflects the principles promoted by the district, including sustainability, growth, and value creation for both people and the territory.
He emphasised that integrating renewable energy with agriculture is not a compromise but a necessary direction for sustainable development. He also noted that the Puglia region already plays a leading role in Italy’s renewable energy sector, producing around 14 percent of the country’s green energy compared to a consumption level of 7 percent, making it a key contributor to Italy’s energy transition along with its strong agricultural and tourism base.
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