COUNTRY
LOCATION
Abstract
The project involves the construction of a photovoltaic plant for electricity generation with a total capacity of 11 MWp, located in the municipality of Caltagirone, in the province of Catania. The intervention includes the installation of two sub-plants, “Caltagirone 1” and “Caltagirone 2”, with capacities of 3 MW and 8 MW, respectively. The primary objective is to generate clean energy by utilizing thin-film technology based on cadmium telluride (CdTe), chosen for its energy efficiency and low production costs.
The area designated for the plant covers an upland of approximately 40 hectares, at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, and has been carefully selected to minimize environmental impact. The design takes into account the territorial characteristics and includes a series of visual and environmental mitigation measures, including the planting of native shrub species on an area of 11 hectares and the adoption of grassing techniques to protect the soil.
On the technological front, the system uses photovoltaic modules connected in series and parallel, optimizing the efficiency of the generator through advanced inverters designed to operate at the maximum power point (Maximum Power Point). The plant, designed to produce approximately 16,170 MWh annually, will be able to meet the energy needs of over 4,300 households, avoiding CO2 emissions estimated at 8,020 tons each year.
The project, developed with in-depth regulatory analysis and technical feasibility studies, stands out for its rigorous engineering approach, aiming to ensure the durability and safety of the work over time. The executive validation has confirmed compliance with legislative and contractual requirements, highlighting the absence of significant risks for the construction and management of the plant. Additionally, special attention has been given to the recyclability of materials, with the module manufacturer ensuring the recovery of 95% of the semiconductor components at the end of their life cycle.
The intervention represents an example of sustainable engineering, combining technological advancement, energy efficiency, and environmental respect, positioning itself as a model for future projects in the energy transition.