BayWare is now developing a 40MWp solar project with an initial annual output of 52GWh, complete with an energy storage system. The capacity of the storage system is not specified. Ultimately, the project will be used for green hydrogen production through a partnership with Lhyfe.

France's Lhyfe will develop the green hydrogen production side of the hybrid facility, which will use solar power to generate electricity. According to BayWare, industrial players, local authorities, associations, schools and urban transport operators all have green hydrogen markets within a 150km radius of the site. However, before any plans for green hydrogen production are drawn up, a year-long study of the potential for local use will be undertaken. BayWare expects the local government to invest during the development of the project and become a major shareholder during the construction and operation phases.

French President Emmanuel Macron has made no secret of his country's interest in green hydrogen, as it is one of the country's 2030 development goals. Macron mainly wants to produce green hydrogen through nuclear power, but there are still opportunities for solar electrolysis. With plans for green hydrogen being put on hold in the short term, the real thrust of the project is its potential for solar energy storage. BayWare said its solar-plus-storage hybrid system will be able to integrate optimally with the grid, helping to ensure power supply, especially during peak winter months.

Mathieu Bordeleau, innovation director at BayWare France, said the company wanted the project to be a showcase for French innovation, highlighting the benefits of combining flexibility tools with renewable energy production. He added that the company is committed to demonstrating the technical feasibility of the project, as well as its economic relevance to all the services provided.Editor/XingWentao