The solar parks built on former coal heaps in Terril Wendel and Diesen-Porcelette not only produce more electricity than estimated; they are also making a lasting contribution to increasing the population of the green toad, which is a protected species in France. In 2022, electricity generation was 12 percent higher than estimated in Terril Wendel, and in Diesen-Porcelette, 14.5 percent higher.

“With the solar parks in Terril Wendel and Diesen-Porcelette, STARVERT Energy GmbH has achieved the successful combination of economic benefit and nature conservation.” Not only is the amount of electricity generated in both parks more than 12 percent higher than forecast, the protected species of green toad has also taken well to the habitat within the solar park, which is protected from human access,” said Dr. Jörg Gerike, Managing Director of STARVERT Energy GmbH (formerly WIRCON).

“During construction, we created additional ponds and retreat areas for flora and fauna within the plant. The green toad, which has become rare in France, has benefited particularly from this, as regular environmental monitoring shows. I was able to see for myself that the toads have taken to the habitat very well. Not only are there many toads within the park, we can also see spawning in the ponds. This is so pleasing to see, said Anne Kilian.

On 12th May 2023, STRAVERT Energy GmbH opened the Terril Wendel solar park to investors, project participants and media representatives. The solar park in Terril Wendel went into operation in September 2020, and the Diesen-Porcelette solar park, in May 2021.