Local authority assets: a solar resource to be exploited

Horizon Réunion is the regional agency for energy and climate of the Reunion Island. It plays a crucial role in implementing the energy strategy of the island’s local authorities, with a focus on the development of renewable energies.

A key element of the region’s energy transition goals is maximising the value of local authority assets through photovoltaic projects. This strategic initiative aligns with the targets set out in the Pluriannual Energy Programme to install 500 MW of photovoltaic power by 2028. Pierre-Vincent PAYET, head of the solar department at Horizon Réunion, estimates that local authority assets will contribute at least 20% to this target.

Horizon Réunion: Tailor-made support

The agency’s Solar Department Team is actively involved in the key stages of local authority photovoltaic projects, from defining project requirements to optimizing electricity use. Their responsibilities extend to the implementation of tender procedures via competitive bidding processes. Furthermore, their expertise extends to the financial field.

+over 400 projects launched

In response to rising energy costs and growing profitability of photovoltaics, local authorities are following the lead practices, such as the Réunion region. Supported by Horizon Réunion, the region is deploying rooftop power plants on 14 high schools. Similarly, the city of La Possession has undertaken the deployment of power plants on approximately 20 municipal buildings.

“Since 2017, Horizon Réunion has facilitated the implementation of 43 projects. Today, nearly 400 projects are in the process of being contracted for these same local authorities”, Pierre-Vincent PAYET, head of the solar department at Horizon Réunion.

Supporting electric mobility

Horizon Reunion also supports local authorities in the installation of solar carports and electric charging stations.

“A rooftop installation connected to charging stations allows a saving of 40% on the investment compared to the installation of carport” confirms the head of the Solar Department. A good example of this rationalisation approach is the project has been undertaken with the southern inter-municipal community “CIVIS” to install 9 vehicle charging stations powered by a roof-mounted photovoltaic plant at the local authority’s head office. Since 2020, this installation has been charging the local authority’s fleet of electric vehicles, while reducing the building’s electricity consumption by 50%. The electricity is directed first and foremost to the vehicles. When vehicles are not on site, it supplies the building’s electricity needs. When there is no consumption, the energy is fed back into the grid.

This best practice is extracted from our publication ‘Sustainable Regions in Action‘. Discover more best practices here!