On July 3, 2024, NESSIE partners from Morbihan Energies and IUT Lorient & Pontivy visited Belle-Île-en-Mer, an island off the coast of Brittany, France. This visit marked an important milestone in evaluating Breton islands as energy transition lighthouses alongside Ameland (NL), Borkum (DE), and Samsø (DK).
A Renewable Energy Hub in the Making
Belle-Île is home to an innovative photovoltaic installation at its Village de Vacances, supplying 50% of its energy needs through solar canopies and rooftop panels. The system integrates:
- Reconditioned battery storage (10 Renault ZOE batteries, 150 kWh capacity)
- Smart metering & control systems for energy optimization
- Fire suppression & cooling technology ensuring safe operation
- EV charging infrastructure supporting electric mobility
With vast potential for additional solar installations, Morbihan Energies is actively developing new projects in partnership with local authorities.
Unlocking Learning Opportunities
The visit also explored how Short Advanced Courses (SACs) could leverage Belle-Île’s infrastructure as a training ground for future energy professionals. Discussions covered topics like:
- Sizing and deploying solar PV systems
- Energy storage and self-consumption
- Technical and regulatory frameworks
- Operation and maintenance of solar technology
By integrating hands-on learning, students and professionals will gain practical skills in renewable energy that directly align with industry needs.
Looking Ahead: A NESSIE Partner Meeting in 2026
The visit laid the groundwork for a future NESSIE site visit in 2026, which may include:
- A partner steering meeting at Belle-Île’s VVF Holiday Village
- A tour of a new solar park on Houat, another energy-forward island
- Networking with local companies and employers in the renewable sector
With excellent transport links from Quiberon, Belle-Île stands as a strategic location for knowledge exchange and workforce development in the energy transition.
