Calcaires Agri Énergie and Ether Energy activated a 3.3-hectare agrivoltaic installation north of the Calcaires de Florennes quarry in Wallonia. The system places 3,240 photovoltaic panels—totaling 2.27 MWc capacity—directly above land dedicated to sheep grazing.
The design prioritizes dual utility. Panels stand elevated with six-metre gaps, allowing sheep to move freely beneath while gaining shelter from weather. This layout keeps the land agriculturally active, preserving its role in local food systems rather than turning it into a sterile energy farm.
The energy output is substantial. The site produces 2.33 GWh of electricity each year, powering the quarry’s operations directly. Surplus power feeds into the public grid, enough to cover the needs of approximately 225 households. The project also avoids 2,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, significantly lowering the site’s carbon footprint.
Local farming benefits extend beyond land use. Through a partnership with the Grand-Bois farm in Gerpinnes, the project supports extensive sheep farming. This local production offers an alternative to imports, which currently account for more than 80% of mutton consumed in Belgium.
The installation is designed for a 30-year lifespan and is fully reversible. Planners also intend to establish a Renewable Energy Community, providing farmers with an additional income stream. The next phase involves formalizing the community structure to ensure long-term economic viability for both the energy producers and the local agricultural partners.