PAD RES and Electrum Concreo will build a photovoltaic power plant complex with a total capacity of 130.4 MWp. The complex, named PV Stargard, will be located in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship. The agreement, signed by both companies in recent weeks, also includes the creation of an energy distribution system consisting of 63 km of MV and HV cable lines.
Electrum Concreo, a company operating within the Electrum group with a climate tech profile, has previously collaborated with PAD RES as a general contractor on several projects. It has previously completed the construction of the 35 MW Genowefa photovoltaic farm, located in central Poland, and is currently constructing two solar facilities with a total capacity of 117 MW in Sztum and Mikołajki.
“The PV Stargard complex is another significant initiative within the portfolio of renewable energy projects in the PAD RES group, emphasizing our commitment to the development of green energy and active involvement in the energy transformation process,” evaluates Wojciech Jasiński, Director of Construction Department at PAD RES. “It is no coincidence that we invited Electrum to implement this project. This decision was influenced, among other things, by the successful cooperation in the implementation of previous contracts and understanding the complexity of the planned undertaking. We see that we share common goals – we want our projects to contribute to further transforming Poland towards a more sustainable energy future,” explains Wojciech Jasiński.
“This is our next investment carried out jointly with PAD RES in Pomerania. Investments in this region are of particular importance to our business,” emphasizes Tomasz Słyż, Director of Implementation Team at Electrum Concreo. “We are pleased that through this implementation, we have the opportunity to work together with our partner towards the development of modern technologies for energy transformation and economic decarbonization,” adds Tomasz Słyż.
The PV Stargard photovoltaic power plants will cover an area of 176 hectares and generate energy equivalent to powering 69,000 households, thereby avoiding emissions of over 118,000 tons of carbon dioxide. The installation is expected to be operational in the first quarter of 2025.
About Electrum
Electrum Group is a leading Polish Climate Tech business based in Białystok, offering comprehensive solutions in the field of cutting-edge technology development, project construction, and management in the energy and information sectors. The technological maturity of its experts allows them to deliver products and services that respond to the evolving needs of the industry and businesses in line with the ongoing energy transformation. Electrum creates and implements solutions and builds projects based on the idea of an individual energy mix, striking a balance between the social and environmental responsibility of the business and its economic aspect.
PAD RES is a Polish developer of clean energy specializing in projects related to renewable energy, infrastructure investments, and commercial real estate. Founded in 2010, the company successfully manages the development of its investments from inception to the “ready for construction” or “ready for operation” stage. In September 2021, the majority of PAD RES shares were acquired by Griffin Capital Partners and Kajima Europe. The group plans to focus on further developing the PAD RES portfolio, which includes investments in photovoltaic and wind projects at various stages of development, both in the developer phase and ready for construction, with a total secured capacity exceeding 1 GW. Such a portfolio places the platform at the forefront of the developing national renewable energy sector.
Electrum Group, a leading Polish Climate Tech business, has begun the implementation of another large-scale project as the general contractor. The construction of two photovoltaic farms with a combined installed capacity of 117.1 MW has just commenced in the locations of Sztum and Mikołajki Pomorskie in the Pomeranian Voivodeship. The completion of both projects is scheduled for spring 2025.
The power plants in Sztum and Mikołajki Pomorskie mark the second collaboration between Electrum and PAD RES, a prominent Polish developer in the clean energy sector, and the sixth major project announced by the contractor this year. In recent months, Electrum has completed work on a joint venture with Nofar Energy on a solar farm in Krzywińskie, and on September 21, as part of its cooperation with investor EDP Renewables, Electrum Group officially inaugurated the construction of a power plant in Przykona. Additionally, Electrum plans to expand into international markets.
„PV Sztum and PV Mikołajki are significant projects for Electrum. We are progressively working towards our goal and utilizing technology and knowledge to build the energy infrastructure of the future. The projected annual production of PV Sztum and PV Mikołajki will have the capacity to power up to 65,000 households” – said Robert Rogowski, Senior Project Manager at Electrum Group.
The Sztum power plant is a comprehensive project, including photovoltaic panels with a capacity of 86.1 MW, spread across two smaller farms with a total area of 113.3 hectares – PV Barlewice (65.8 MW DC) and PV Koślinka (20.3 MW DC). Adequate connections between the components of the complex will be ensured by two medium-voltage power lines of approximately 30 kV and a common length of about 13 kilometers, while the critical point responsible for connecting to the power grid will be the GPO Kępina substation.
The smaller installation, the photovoltaic farm in Mikołajki Pomorskie, has a production capacity of 31 MW on an area of 50 hectares, distributed between PV Mikołajki (5 MW DC) and PV Gdakowo (26 MW DC). In this case, investments have also been made in extensive supporting infrastructure, including nearly 5 kilometers of power lines and a high-voltage line with a length of about 500 meters. The power grid will be connected to the farm through the GPO Mikołajki substation, operating at a voltage of 110/30 kV.
The finalization of formalities related to the implementation was announced in August of this year. The construction of both farms simultaneously began in September, with their completion expected in the spring of 2025.
About Electrum
Electrum Group is a leading Polish Climate Tech business based in Białystok, offering comprehensive solutions in the field of cutting-edge technology development, project construction, and management in the energy and information sectors. The technological maturity of its experts allows them to deliver products and services that respond to the evolving needs of the industry and businesses in line with the ongoing energy transformation. Electrum creates and implements solutions and builds projects based on the idea of an individual energy mix, striking a balance between the social and environmental responsibility of the business and its economic aspect.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the construction of photovoltaic farms, which are a crucial part of alternative energy systems. Discover why photovoltaic farms are becoming increasingly popular and the benefits they bring to both the environment and the economy.
Advancements in Photovoltaic Technology
Photovoltaic panels, also known as PV panels, are the cornerstone of photovoltaic farms. How exactly do they work, and why is progress in their efficiency so vital? We’ll answer these questions and discuss why choosing the right location is crucial for the success of a farm.
Photovoltaic technology harnesses solar energy to generate electricity. PV panels contain silicon solar cells that convert sunlight into electricity. Advancements in this technology focus on improving the efficiency of converting solar energy into electrical power. New panels are more efficient and allow for more energy production from the same amount of sunlight.
Designing Photovoltaic Farms
The next step in building a photovoltaic farm is the design process. Planning the layout of panels and inverter systems is critical. It’s essential to integrate various energy systems on the farm to ensure everything functions smoothly. Additionally, adhering to regulations and permits is crucial.
Designing photovoltaic farms also involves location analysis. Choosing the right location is a determining factor in the farm’s efficiency. Therefore, a thorough examination of geographical and climatic conditions is necessary to select the optimal site for the farm.
Step-by-Step Farm Construction
After the design phase, we move on to the actual construction of the photovoltaic farm. This process consists of several key steps.
1. Site Preparation and Foundations
The first step is to prepare the site where PV panels will be installed. This involves clearing any obstructions and preparing the ground for installation. Foundations are crucial for panel stability and need to be adequately reinforced and adapted to local conditions.
2. PV Panel Installation
Next, PV panels are installed. They are securely mounted on the foundations in an optimal configuration to maximize sunlight capture. The installation process is meticulously monitored to ensure system stability and efficiency.
3. Wiring and Electrical Testing
After panel installation, the wiring and electrical testing phase commences. Panels are connected to each other and to the inverter system, which converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) suitable for household or industrial use. Testing is vital to ensure that the entire system functions correctly.
Monitoring and Maintenance of Photovoltaic Farms
After completing the farm construction, ongoing monitoring and routine maintenance are essential. Monitoring systems provide continuous control over the performance of photovoltaic panels. In case of malfunctions or issues, swift action can be taken. Routine maintenance includes panel cleaning and technical inspections.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The economic and environmental advantages of photovoltaic farms are significant. Savings on energy costs are a primary benefit. Sunlight is a free source of energy, and photovoltaic panels efficiently capture it. This leads to lower electricity bills for farm owners and potential income from surplus energy sold back to the grid.
The environmental benefits are equally critical. Photovoltaic farms are environmentally friendly because they do not emit carbon dioxide or other harmful substances into the atmosphere. This significantly reduces the impact on climate change and improves air quality.
Innovations and the Future of Photovoltaic Farms
The latest innovations in photovoltaic farms include increasing the efficiency of photovoltaic panels. New panel technologies enable more efficient utilization of sunlight, enhancing the overall performance of photovoltaic farms. Additionally, thin-film photovoltaic layers are being developed, which are more flexible and easier to install, opening up new possibilities in panel design and utilization.
Challenges and Solutions in Photovoltaic Farm Construction
Building photovoltaic farms can pose various challenges. Obtaining the necessary permits and complying with regulations for renewable energy projects is one potential obstacle. In some regions, this process can be complex and time-consuming.
Another challenge is project management. Coordinating the activities of multiple teams, procuring materials, meeting delivery deadlines, and maintaining high safety standards are essential considerations during the construction phase.
General Contractors for Renewable Energy (OZE)
Collaborating with general contractors for renewable energy projects offers several advantages. These contractors have extensive experience in designing, building, and managing photovoltaic farms and other OZE projects. Investors can benefit from their expertise, increasing project efficiency and minimizing risks.
General contractors also provide comprehensive project management, allowing investors to focus on their core activities while specialists handle all technical and logistical aspects of the project.
Conclusion
The construction of photovoltaic farms not only makes economic sense but also contributes to environmental protection. Advancements in photovoltaic technology, investments in renewable energy sources, and collaboration with general contractors for OZE projects are key factors in shaping the future of sustainable energy production. Photovoltaic farms represent a significant step toward a more ecological and efficient energy generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of constructing photovoltaic farms?
Are photovoltaic farms cost-effective in all regions?
What are the latest technological innovations in photovoltaic panels?
What does it mean to be a general contractor for renewable energy projects (OZE)?
What challenges can arise during the construction of photovoltaic farms?
1. What are the main benefits of constructing photovoltaic farms?
The main benefits of constructing photovoltaic farms include cost savings on energy, the production of clean energy, a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, and the potential for income through surplus energy sales to the grid. For investors, this means a stable source of revenue.
2. Are photovoltaic farms cost-effective in all regions?
Photovoltaic farms can be cost-effective in many regions, especially where there is ample sunlight. However, the efficiency of a photovoltaic farm depends on the location and climatic conditions. Therefore, a detailed analysis of the location and project is necessary before constructing a farm.
3. What are the latest technological innovations in photovoltaic panels?
The latest innovations in photovoltaic technology focus on improving the efficiency of converting solar energy into electrical power. New panel technologies allow for more efficient utilization of sunlight. Additionally, thin-film photovoltaic layers are being developed, which are more flexible and easier to install.
4. What does it mean to be a general contractor for renewable energy projects (OZE)?
General contractors for renewable energy projects are specialized companies that provide comprehensive project management for renewable energy initiatives, including the construction of photovoltaic farms. Collaborating with these professionals allows investors to leverage their expertise, enhancing project efficiency and minimizing risks.
5. What challenges can arise during the construction of photovoltaic farms?
The construction of photovoltaic farms can present various challenges, including obtaining the necessary permits and complying with regulations for renewable energy projects. Project management is another significant challenge, as it involves coordinating the activities of multiple teams, procuring materials, adhering to delivery schedules, and maintaining high safety standards.
