A PV production of 6,000 MWh per year with input-free farming, 1.2 ha converted to permanent grassland and 50 happy ewes.

Overview

Innovation with the Implementation of a Rotational Grazing System for 50 Ewes.

Built under a single Class 2 permit, the Soleilmont agrivoltaic plant has been in service since the second quarter of 2026. In partnership with a local farmer, 50 ewes from a farm in Gerpinnes graze under and between the 9,200 photovoltaic panels.

The 5.7-hectare project is located in the municipality of Fleurus, between the R3 and the Bois de Soleilmont, in a field on Rue Joseph Daye in Heppignies. This pasture is situated in a sectoral plan’s extraction dependency zone. The energy project promotes a new agricultural technique – dynamic rotational grazing – much to the delight of local farmers.

Dynamic rotational grazing involves dividing a plot of land into multiple parcels separated by fences, allowing the 50 ewes to move from one section to another. This method helps preserve soil fertility and promotes better grass regrowth, ensuring higher nutritional value for the ewes, whose meat is intended for short supply chain sales.

The fixed solar panel structures use zero-concrete technology and are raised 1 metre off the ground, so the ewes move freely between the rows. The panels occupy 2.4 hectares of the total project area.

Challenge

Agricultural Transition

The land is farmed extensively, without chemical inputs, and carries around 50 ewes on 5.7 hectares. The meat is sold through short supply chains. Raised to 1 metre, the panel structures let the ewes move comfortably between the rows and give them shelter in extreme heat or harsh winter conditions. The rotational grazing system is divided into three fenced zones, sown mainly with grasses and clovers well suited to shaded environments and of high forage value.

Environmental Transition

A hedge of approximately 445 metres runs along the western boundary of the site, planted with species similar to those already present. The mix was chosen to provide protected habitat for birds, with thorny species, and planted with the support of "Yes We Plant". A further 1.2 hectares are managed as extensive meadow, creating a transition between open and wooded environments and widening the habitat available to local wildlife.

Solution

In response to current global changes, an energy transition policy has emerged, emphasizing the development of renewable energy sources.

The Soleilmont plant will produce electricity for thirty years, generating 6,000 MWh a year — enough for around 2,000 households. The project is also compatible with a Renewable Energy Community. Discussions are ongoing with public and private entities to identify businesses interested in purchasing green energy, ensuring a local and sustainable electricity supply chain.

Additionally, this initiative supports the revival of the sheep farming sector in Wallonia, which has faced challenges in recent years.