The monumental construction of the new bioenergy plant in Corsica begins under the leadership of EDF, with a colossal investment of 1 billion euros. This initiative marks a significant turning point towards a more sustainable and modern energy future for the island. By embracing liquid biomass technology, EDF aims not only to replace the aging heavy oil plant in Vazzio but also to propel Corsica towards a marked reduction in its carbon footprint. Ultimately, the Ricanto plant promises to supply up to 40% of the island’s electricity during the night, reflecting a strategic advance in the renewable era, while contributing to the ambitious goal of energy autonomy by 2050.
On November 22, EDF CEO Luc Rémont inaugurated the start of construction for the new bioenergy power plant in Ricanto, Ajaccio. This long-awaited project aims to replace the old Vazzio plant. With an investment of 800 million euros, this new 130 MW facility is expected to cover up to 40% of the island’s electricity needs during the night. It will operate using liquid biomass made from rapeseed and sunflower oils imported from Europe, providing a better carbon balance. This transition to cleaner energy is part of Corsica’s broader ambition to achieve 100% renewable energy production by 2050. Finally, EDF plans to invest a total of 1 billion euros over the next ten years to support the energy transition of the island.
the new edf project in corsica
The EDF project in Corsica is a large-scale topic, integrating an ambitious vision and robust goals. The inauguration of this modern bioenergy plant on the island will mark a crucial step in the evolution of energy in Corsica. Since the laying of the first stone by Luc Rémont, EDF’s CEO, last November, expectations are high regarding the future impacts of this infrastructure on the island’s energy network. The transition to a cleaner energy source through the adoption of liquid biomass is at the heart of this initiative.
replacing old infrastructures with bioenergy
The old Vazzio plant, which used heavy fuel oil, represents an era now past. With EDF investing 1 billion euros, the objective is to reduce the carbon footprint while ensuring that the electricity supply is reliable and sustainable. This new plant aims to replace old infrastructures with modern technology based on liquid biomass imported from Europe. This technological choice is not only beneficial for the environment but also ensures continuity in the balance of the region’s energy network.
towards a greener and more autonomous corsica
The gradual transition to a green and renewable energy source, such as that offered by the Ricanto plant, is essential for Corsica. Through this initiative, EDF aspires to lead the island towards energy independence by 2050, thanks to a decarbonized energy mix. Operational by 2028, the Ricanto site, alongside other interconnection projects like SACOI3, is expected to double the local renewable production capacity. The strategy also includes investments in cutting-edge technologies like STEP, aiming to maximize the flexibility of the island’s network and further reduce external energy dependencies.
