Renewable Energy: New Site Identified for Solar Farm

This is a group of farmers, ranchers, trade unionists and representatives of non-governmental organizations. The aim is to produce electricity from photovoltaic panels will be installed on site at Balaclava. 

Then, the energy produced will be sold to the Central Electricity Board and the benefits will be shared by the members of the cooperative. The project should be repeated south of the island, Souillac.

"We have several farms of this kind across the island. In a first time, we will devote ourselves to the production of energy " , explains Michel Chiffonne, secretary Centre for Alternative Research and Studies (CARES), which oversees the project. Then, it is planned to develop integrated firm should mention the cultivation of vegetables and livestock. The aim is to "ensure energy and food security," says Michel Chiffonne.

Since its announcement last year, the solar farm project through a cooperative has generated much interest from farmers. Some 50,000 people showed their interest so far.

"One thing is certain is that farmers and ranchers are really interested in this project. But most important is that citizens participate too. The idea is to break the monopoly of the state and private groups, " said Secretary of CARES.