Zelestra Starts 9.5MW Sicilian Agrivoltaic

Why It Matters

The development proves agrivoltaics can scale in Italy, marrying clean power generation with productive farmland and local economic growth, a model other regions may emulate.

Key Takeaways

• 9.5 MW Bellomo agrivoltaic plant under construction in Sicily.
• 10‑year PPA with BKW also covers 6.5 MW Ginosa plant.
• Over 80% of site retained for agriculture and grazing.
• Project avoids ~5,200 t CO₂ annually, creates 80 jobs.
• Zelestra aims to double 1.4 GW Italian pipeline this year.

Pulse Analysis

Agrivoltaic systems are emerging as a pragmatic bridge between renewable energy goals and the preservation of agricultural land, especially in Mediterranean markets where sunlight is abundant but farming traditions remain strong. Italy’s National Energy and Climate Plan targets 65 GW of solar capacity by 2030, and projects like Bellomo illustrate how developers can meet these ambitions without displacing food production. By integrating tracker‑mounted PV arrays with grazing zones and carob‑tree belts, the plant delivers electricity while maintaining biodiversity and soil health, a dual benefit that resonates with EU sustainability directives.

The Bellomo installation leverages a long‑term PPA with BKW, providing revenue certainty that de‑risks the capital outlay for both parties. This contractual framework not only guarantees a steady off‑take of clean power but also aligns with corporate ESG commitments, making the project attractive to institutional investors. Moreover, the inclusion of solar‑powered streetlights under Zelestra’s EmPowerS initiative showcases ancillary community benefits, enhancing road safety and reducing municipal electricity bills. The anticipated avoidance of 5,200 tonnes of CO₂ annually translates into tangible climate impact, reinforcing Italy’s contribution to the Paris Agreement.

Zelestra’s broader pipeline—currently 1.4 GW and slated to double—signals a rapid scaling of solar and storage assets across the country. The company’s focus on local job creation, with up to 80 positions tied to Bellomo, reflects a growing trend of renewable projects serving as catalysts for regional economic revitalisation. Partnerships with utilities like BKW, which bring financing muscle and long‑term demand, are likely to become a template for future agrivoltaic roll‑outs, positioning Italy as a testbed for integrated energy‑agriculture solutions in Europe.

Zelestra starts 9.5MW Sicilian agrivoltaic

Bellomo backed by 10‑year BKW PPA · 17 February 2026 11:00

Zelestra has started construction of the Bellomo agrivoltaic solar plant in Modica, Sicily. The company said the project is supported by a 10‑year power purchase agreement with BKW that also includes the 6.5 MW(_{dc}) Ginosa solar plant in Puglia, which is already operational. Bellomo is expected to avoid around 5,200 tonnes of CO₂ per year.

Zelestra stated that more than 80 % of the fenced area will remain dedicated to agricultural use, combining sheep grazing, native pasture and a carob‑tree belt alongside tracker‑mounted PV systems. Improving System has been appointed as EPC contractor, with construction expected to support up to 80 local jobs.

Bianca Sarbu, managing director trading and origination at BKW, said:

“We are pleased that the next step in our successful collaboration with Zelestra is now taking place in Sicily. The long‑term renewables agreement between our companies provides a strong and stable framework for delivering clean solar power to Modica. At BKW, we are committed to advancing the energy transition in the Italian market and beyond.”

The project will also install more than 15 solar‑powered light poles at rural intersections under Zelestra’s EmPowerS initiative in partnership with the Municipality of Modica.

Maria Monisteri Caschetto, mayor of Modica, said:

“Any initiative that promotes our territory, without altering its identity, but rather building on it to look toward the future and a more sustainable world will always find us attentive and open to dialogue. The partnership with Zelestra came about naturally and spontaneously, not only because we share a common vision of a better world for future generations, but also for very practical reasons. The plant will be developed on land that will remain largely agricultural; it will be managed locally, and it will generate jobs and clean energy, improving overall conditions in the area. Finally, our collaborative agreement includes the installation of solar‑powered street lighting at several rural intersections, enhancing road safety in areas with significant residential presence.”

Eliano Russo, CEO of Zelestra in Italy, added:

“Zelestra’s growth in Italy continues to gain momentum, with Bellomo now under construction soon after bringing Ginosa into operation. We are focused on delivering clean energy to BKW on time and on budget, while supporting skilled local jobs and rural development. As we work to double our pipeline in Italy this year, we remain committed to driving sustainable economic growth across the country.”

Zelestra said Italy is one of its fastest‑growing markets, with a current 1.4 GW pipeline of solar and battery‑storage projects that it aims to double this year.