Floating solar power plants are being developed on the water surfaces of former gravel quarries in France. One such project is planned for the ponds of the Martin gravel quarries near La Flèche in Sarthe. These quarries, which were abandoned in the early 2010s, have been transformed into a 100-hectare site of ponds. A public inquiry for the installation of nearly 30,000 floating solar panels on two ponds measuring 13 and 22 hectares is set to begin on September 15. The installation is expected to produce 18.8 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually. Floating photovoltaic power plants, also known as floatovoltaics, are solar energy systems mounted on floating structures on bodies of water. This technology is gaining attention as a way to generate renewable energy while using water surfaces that are otherwise unused. The Martin project aims to harness solar energy without occupying valuable land, a common challenge in densely populated areas. To minimize the environmental impact of the floating solar plant, several measures have been proposed. A 20-meter buffer zone will be maintained between the floating panels and the shore to allow for continued fishing activities. Additionally, 70 percent of the two ponds involved will remain open water to support aquatic life and provide habitat for birds. These measures aim to balance energy production with the preservation of local ecosystems. The project is also expected to have a positive effect on the water itself. By covering part of the pond surface, the solar panels may help reduce water temperature and evaporation during hot summer months. This can be beneficial for maintaining water levels and supporting aquatic life. The power plant is anticipated to be fully operational by the end of 2028.