EDF Renouvelables and ArcelorMittal open solar power plant in France

EDF Renouvelables and ArcelorMittal Industeel have officially opened a new solar power plant in the commune of Châteauneuf (Loire, France). The facility is located on the territory of a former industrial waste storage facility and is an example of successful reclamation of an industrial area and its transformation into a source of clean energy, according to a press release from ArcelorMittal.

The power plant covers 4.2 hectares and consists of 7,280 solar panels. The total installed capacity is 4.5 MW, which is equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of about 2,600 people.

In addition to generating green electricity, the project contributes to the preservation of groundwater through special soil waterproofing. A rainwater collection tank has also been created to help prevent pollution.

Launched in September 2024, the plant is part of EDF Renouvelables’ strategy to support industrial enterprises in the decarbonization process. The transformation of the former ArcelorMittal Industeel waste storage facility into a modern energy facility is an example of a combination of industrial transformation, environmental solutions, and efficient use of the territory.

“This project demonstrates that abandoned industrial sites can be successfully used to produce renewable energy. We are proud to have implemented this initiative together with ArcelorMittal Industeel,” said Francis Odigier, Regional Head of EDF Renouvelables.

ArcelorMittal Industeel’s Director of the Loire Department, Aurélien Bra, also emphasized the importance of the project:

“Turning an area previously used for waste storage into a source of clean energy is a big step forward. We are proving that industry can change and adapt to modern environmental challenges.”

Earlier, ArcelorMittal called on the EU to strengthen trade protection and increase support for green investments as high costs and cheap Chinese imports threaten the bloc’s steel industry. European steelmakers are under considerable pressure, the company’s CFO said.