Alp’Cœur Énergie project completed

Alp’Cœur Énergie, a 5 MWc solar power plant in the French Alps, was officially inaugurated recently after being commissioned in April 2026. The facility is expected to generate about 6.5 gigawatt-hours of renewable electricity annually.

Collaborative development and local ownership

The project was initiated by the Cœur de Savoie Community of Communes and co-developed with Energ’Isère and Enercoop AuRA. It received support from several local organizations and the host communes, with technical assistance from EH2. The site is located in the Alpespace business park, owned by the Cœur de Savoie Community of Communes.

Design adapted to local conditions

The solar plant was designed to fit the local landscape, taking into account the area’s topography and hydraulic constraints. To manage flood risks, panels and the transformer station were elevated by up to one meter. The layout also considered existing electrical lines and potential interference.

Biodiversity and ecological measures

Several initiatives were undertaken to protect local wildlife and promote biodiversity. These included revegetation, habitat creation, and wildlife corridors. Amphibian protection was a priority, with barriers installed to prevent their entry into the construction area and replacement ditches created to support their habitats.

Managing invasive species

Environmental studies identified the presence of Japanese knotweed, an invasive plant. Preventive measures, such as covering affected areas, were implemented to limit its spread. An ecologist monitored the site throughout the construction phase, and the LPO Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes was involved in overseeing the project’s environmental impact.

Energy distribution and long-term agreement

The electricity produced by the plant will be sold under a thirty-year Power Purchase Agreement with Enercoop. This agreement aims to support a future local energy-sharing system, directing some of the generated power toward community use.