This innovative project marks a step in the development of renewable energy, aiming to enhance an existing hydraulic infrastructure. It is part of the regional concession of the Canal de Provence and contributes to controlling the production costs of water services.
The installation, 71 meters long, covers the canal and its banks. With a capacity of 299 kWc, it will produce approximately 404 MWh of green electricity annually, equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of nearly 200 inhabitants. This project enables renewable energy production, cost control through self-consumption, improved water quality, and testing an innovative technical solution for larger-scale deployment.
This demonstrator aligns with SCP's energy strategy, linked to the Climate Plan and the Plan Or Bleu of the Région Sud. SCP aims to become an energy-positive company, eventually producing more renewable energy than its annual consumption (40 GWh), through hydropower, photovoltaics, and agrivoltaics.
With nearly 70 km of open-air canals, the Canal de Provence offers significant potential for photovoltaic projects, estimated at over 50 MWc. Approximately 5 to 10% of the canals could be involved, considering technical and regulatory constraints. The Saint-Maximin project represents a first structured step.
Beyond energy production, the photovoltaic coverage also helps limit water evaporation, reduce algal growth, and lower water temperature. Developed on existing infrastructure, this project follows a responsible approach, prioritizing already artificialized spaces to preserve natural areas.
