The Vatican is to build one of Italy’s largest agrivoltaic complexes
The Vatican plans to build an agrivoltaic complex near Rome worth around €100 mln, combining solar power generation with agricultural production. The facility is expected to have a capacity of 80–90 MW, making it one of the largest projects of its kind in Italy, Reuters reports.
The complex will be developed at the roughly 450-hectare Santa Maria di Galeria estate on the northwestern outskirts of Rome. Solar panels will cover around 200 hectares, nearly half of the site. They will be mounted several metres above the ground, allowing crops to continue growing underneath.
The system is expected not only to generate electricity but also to create more favorable conditions for crops. Shade from the panels could reduce soil moisture evaporation and provide some protection against extreme weather conditions.
The new complex is expected to make the Vatican fully self-sufficient in electricity. The power will also supply the Vatican Radio transmission station and potentially other Holy See-linked properties. Any surplus electricity is expected to be made available to Italy.
The project could take 18–24 months to complete, including permitting and administrative procedures, while tenders for construction work are expected to be launched in the coming weeks. The initiative was a priority for Pope Francis and has been endorsed by Pope Leo XIV.
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