The energy transition keeps firmly establishing itself in the Lyon landscape. On Monday, the Lyon Metropolis officially approved the creation of a photovoltaic park on the island of La Chèvre, a charming spot nestled between Feyzin and Solaize. Led by Vensolair, a subsidiary of the Compagnie Nationale du Rhône, the project will span 8.9 hectares and marks a new step in the “Solar Metropolis” strategy.
The location was chosen for good reason. Previously occupied by the Chapelan nursery, which left in 2023, the island of La Chèvre lies within the scope of the Technological Risk Prevention Plan for the Chemical Valley. This means: no permanent human presence is allowed. It’s a restrictive framework for classic urban development, but perfect for a renewable energy production project with no residential impact.
14 GWh per year and 5,200 residents powered
On the numbers side, the project clearly shows its ambitions. The future solar park aims for a annual production of 14 gigawatt-hours, which is equivalent to the electricity consumption of 5,200 residents. In the context of the Metropolis, this alone represents 7.5% of the overall "Solar Metropolis" goal, a significant boost in the race toward low carbon.
Green energy doesn’t come alone. The project also includes a vast ecological restoration over 10.8 hectares. Areas favorable to birds, reptiles, and bats will help breathe new life into this space that has long been left fallow. In total, nearly 2,800 tons of CO₂ avoided each year, a strong argument in light of the climate emergency.
A public consultation this spring
The debate is underway.
e;sormais open. The project declaration is equivalent to aligning with the PLU-H, and a public consultation will take place from May 18 to June 18, 2026. Residents, associations, and curious minds will have the chance to voice their thoughts on this project that combines solar energy production and renaturation. One thing's for sure: on the island of La Chèvre, the future looks bright and sunny.
Source : Lyon Capitale