Agrivoltaics becomes a driver of social inclusion in Castrovillari
A project combining clean energy and social reintegration
In the heart of Calabria, the energy transition takes on an even deeper meaning thanks to a project that brings together solar power, sustainable agriculture, and social value. This is the vision behind La Petrosa Solar Farm, a 14.4 MW agrivoltaic plant designed not only as a source of renewable energy, but also as an opportunity for inmates of the “Rosetta Sisca” Correctional Facility in Castrovillari.
Promoted by EF Solare Italia, Le Greenhouse, Confapi Calabria, and the Castrovillari Correctional Facility, the initiative represents a virtuous model of sustainable development where photovoltaic production intertwines with human growth and local development.
Education and employment to build a future
The memorandum of understanding, signed in November 2025 at the regional headquarters of Confapi Calabria, marks the beginning of a training and professional pathway aimed at providing inmates with new skills in the fields of renewables and sustainable agriculture. The initiative involves inmates in agricultural and vocational training activities at the solar farm, with technical support from Le Greenhouse and in collaboration with local institutions. Through this project, agrivoltaics becomes a tool for personal and community growth — blending the technical expertise of the agricultural and photovoltaic sectors with the human dimension of inclusion, helping participants reintegrate into the workforce.
The Correctional Facility will be responsible for selecting the inmates involved, while Le Greenhouse will coordinate training and work activities on-site. Confapi Calabria will promote the project among its member companies, helping ensure that the skills acquired by participants are recognized and valued for future employment opportunities.
“For us, sustainability is not only environmental but also social,” said Andrea Ghiselli, CEO of EF Solare Italia. “With this project, we want to show that clean energy production can also be a driver of inclusion, offering inmates a training and professional path that restores dignity, skills, and a sense of future.”
“EF Solare is committed to developing agrivoltaic projects designed to integrate with the landscape and agronomic characteristics of the territories where it operates. This vision has led to a structured approach to dialogue with local institutions and communities, fostering the sharing of benefits and opportunities. The initiative developed in collaboration with the ‘Rosetta Sisca’ Correctional Facility perfectly fits within this vision of creating shared value, amplifying the project’s social impact while promoting inclusion and development,” added Ettore Acampora, Head of Business Development & Energy Management at EF Solare Italia.
Agrivoltaics as an example of integrated sustainability
La Petrosa Solar Farm is among the first projects in Italy where an agrivoltaic plant combines solar energy generation with a social program of training and employment. Agrivoltaics thus becomes a model of sustainable development — one that unites energy efficiency with the agricultural enhancement of the territory and a commitment to social inclusion.
Energy that creates value for the community
The project demonstrates the ability of renewable energy to generate shared value: not only through emissions reduction, but also through economic growth and active community participation. In Castrovillari, sustainability takes the shape of a project that lights up the territory — an energy that also ignites new possibilities for the future.