SUNfarming and SPIE Collaborate on Europe's Largest Agrivoltaic Project with New Green Energy Substation

SUNfarming GmbH, a Germany-based developer and investor in agrivoltaic systems, announced that it has partnered with SPIE, a prominent European provider of multi-technical services in energy and communications, to construct the substation for green energy at Europe’s largest agrivoltaic project, ‘Klimapark Steinhöfel’.  

Spanning eight districts, this project will integrate up to 753 megawatts peak (MWp) of installed capacity into the grid.  

The facility will utilize four transformers to ensure that the generated energy is efficiently transmitted to the regional high-voltage grid managed by E.DIS, using 110-kilovolt cable systems. 

EBRD grants $20 million loan to Crédit Agricole Egypt to support SMEs and green investments

The Steinhöfel Climate Park is a flagship project in the photovoltaic industry. It combines sustainable energy production with active agricultural use across approximately 500 hectares. 

Utilizing cutting-edge designs and technologies, the park enables the dual use of agricultural land, integrating light and rainwater management with DIN SPEC-compliant bifacial glass-glass PV modules installed at a minimum height of 2.10 meters. 

This innovative approach supports animal welfare and biodiversity and contributes to CO2 reduction, groundwater conservation, and enhanced agricultural yield security on previously challenging sandy soils. 

SUNfarming, in collaboration with an agricultural consultancy and local farmers, crafted the agricultural strategy for the Steinhöfel Climate Park, navigating it through a four-year development phase to secure planning approval.  

Once operational, the agrivoltaic systems will transform the land into areas for perennial fodder production and temporary pastures for raising calves and heifers. 

Climate bonds standard expands certification to promote deforestation-free agri-food chains

“The Steinhöfel Climate Park is the largest SUNfarming pioneer project, which we have successfully developed in just under four years with the statute resolutions in all districts.” said Martin Tauschke, co-founder and Managing Director of SUNfarming. 

SPIE is handling every aspect of this project, including obtaining planning permissions, developing implementation plans, and managing the entire procurement process for materials.  

Their scope of work also covers primary and secondary planning and the installation and commissioning of the substation.