Q Energy, in collaboration with Velto Renewables, has inaugurated the largest floating solar power plant in Europe, located in the Haute-Marne region of France. The Les Ilots Blandin solar facility covers an area of 127 hectares and consists of over 135,000 photovoltaic modules, achieving a total installed capacity of 74.3 megawatts peak (MWp).
The project, which began its planning phase in 2019, entered construction in September 2023 and was fully commissioned in June 2025. To complement the floating solar array, a 2-megawatt ground-mounted solar system was integrated, increasing the overall energy output and improving economic efficiency.
Corentin Sivy, the development director at Q Energy France, attributed the successful completion of the project to strong partnerships with local authorities and a thorough understanding of regional dynamics. The floating solar structures and associated inverters were provided by Ciel & Terre, a specialist in floating photovoltaic solutions. Electrical procurement and construction of the ground-mounted array were managed by Perpetum, while Solutions30 oversaw cabling, grid connection, and the overall commissioning process.
In September 2024, Q Energy secured €50.4 million (approximately $56 million) in financial support for the project, facilitated by French banks Crédit Agricole Transitions & Energies and Bpifrance.
Floating solar technology is gaining traction in Europe, particularly in areas where land is scarce. Although floating photovoltaic systems present distinct advantages, they also encounter economic challenges due to higher construction and maintenance costs compared to conventional ground-mounted solar parks.
The Les Ilots Blandin plant represents a significant development in the renewable energy landscape of France, showcasing the potential of innovative solar solutions to meet growing energy demands while utilizing available water surfaces.
