COLMAR-BERG, Luxembourg—Goodyear has put into service a large-scale solar panel installation on its Colmar-Berg proving grounds.
The photovoltaic power stations at its tire testing facilities are part of Goodyear's commitment to reduce CO2 emissions.
With a surface area of 405,650 square feet, the solar project boasts a capacity of 4.4 megawatts at its peak and is made up of 8,148 bifacial panels, capturing light both on the illuminated surface of the panel and on the lower surface from diffuse light.
It complements a pair of installations in place at Goodyear's Colmar-Berg factory site, including the photovoltaic carport with almost 1,500 solar panels on the proving ground parking lot and the power plant on the roof of the mold plant.
Together, with an annual production of 6.2 GWh of electricity, they will contribute to reducing carbon emissions by more than 50,000 metric tons over the next 20 years, while providing clean energy to 1,700 households every year, Goodyear said.
The project was a collaboration between Goodyear, energy supplier Enovos and Paul Wagner et Fils. Investment details were not disclosed.
"Since the inauguration of the photovoltaic carport on the parking lot of the same proving ground in 2021, Goodyear has further strengthened its commitment to reducing CO2 emissions, in line with its global 'Better Future'' strategy and climate ambition," said Romain Hansen, vice president product development for Goodyear in Europe, Middle East and Africa.
"We are also proud, as one of the country's leading industrial players, to support the Luxembourg government in its goal of transitioning to 100 percent renewable energies."
Anouk Hilger, head of renewable energies, Enovos, added: "This major installation completes our portfolio of major solar projects already completed in Luxembourg. It is a model in terms of sustainable development, as we have taken great care to preserve the site and its specific species.
"This project puts into action our deep commitment to the environment and the energy transition. It also shows that collaboration between experts, industries, and governments is essential to catalyze and accelerate the energy transition to a sustainable future."
