Froschham Solar Park: Revolutionary repowering for more electricity and biodiversity!

Froschham Solar Park: Revolutionary repowering for more electricity and biodiversity!

The solar park in Froschham, which went online 17 years ago, is facing a major upheaval. A comprehensive “repowering” is planned, which includes the complete renovation of the system to generate electricity more efficiently. According to a report from the Augsburg General The installed nominal power of currently 4.2 megawatt peak (MWp) will be significantly increased by replacing the modules and system technology. The new modules and inverters are intended to offer higher efficiencies and further increase the almost 4,300 megawatt hours of electricity already generated in 2024.

As part of these measures, it is planned to reduce the distances between the modules in order to use the space more efficiently, although old modules will not be scrapped but will be resold at a discount. Mayor Klaus Habermann (SPD) is surprised at the objections raised by the lower nature conservation authority. They fear that densifying the modules could endanger biodiversity, as sunny areas between the modules provide habitats for various plant and animal species. The discussion about increasing the number of floor areas is also in full swing, as this is intended to define the maximum buildable parts of the property.

The opinions in the building committee

At the most recent meeting of the building committee, objections to the project could not be heard. Manfred Huber from FWG sees the need to further develop the existing system. Colleagues like Marc Sturm and Stefan Westermayr from the CSU also support “repowering” and emphasize its importance for future energy supplies. Marion Zott from the Greens also supports the project.

The building committee made a unanimous recommendation to the city council to change the development plan. If everything goes according to plan, the “repowering” will be implemented within three to four months of approval. The duration of the system could therefore be extended until April 2038.

Biodiversity in focus

The discussion about solar parks and biodiversity is not new. According to that Federal Agency for Nature Conservation The design of solar parks is essential to promote biodiversity. Biodiversity is influenced by local conditions and requires certain target species that are particularly worthy of protection in a region. The correct design and maintenance of the facilities aims to follow ecological criteria and successfully create living spaces.

Good planning should not be underestimated. The NABU recommends covering a maximum of 40% of the area of ​​a solar park with modules and, for example, adding hedges along the fences in order to improve the biotope structures. This could help create stepping stone biotopes that are important for connectivity with the environment and promote local biodiversity.

While the conversion of the solar park in Froschham sounds promising, the challenge of taking nature conservation concerns into account must also be taken into account. A good hand in planning and implementation will be crucial in order to successfully achieve both ecological and energy goals.