TechnoCarbon Unveils Low-Carbon Solar Carport Near Provence Airport

TechnoCarbon has launched its first solar carport structure adjacent to Provence Airport, a significant step in advancing renewable energy infrastructure. This project integrates solar panels with the company’s proprietary carbon fibre-stone technology, known as Pierre-Carbone. Scheduled to be completed in two phases over the next two weeks, the carport is designed to accommodate six vehicles and aims to demonstrate substantial carbon savings through innovative construction materials.

The construction phase will conclude within the first week, followed by the connection to the electricity grid in the second week. By substituting traditional steel and aluminium with TechnoCarbon’s low-carbon composite, the initiative seeks to significantly lower the emissions usually linked to conventional building materials.

Founded in 2018 by aerospace engineer and climate technologist Stephan Savarese, TechnoCarbon is committed to addressing emissions from the construction sector, which contributes approximately 37% of global greenhouse gases. Savarese reflects on his inspiration for the company, stating, “At a climate conference in Paris, I realised climate change was already catastrophic, and materials were being overlooked.” He emphasizes that this project demonstrates how small-scale structures can yield substantial impacts when constructed with sustainable materials.

The patented Pierre-Carbone technology enhances natural stone with carbon fibre, resulting in a durable and elastic material. Unlike steel, this composite does not corrode, eliminates the need for a foundation, and can last for centuries. Savarese explains, “Stone is as flexible as aluminium, but fragile. The carbon fibre reinforcement allows it to deform without breaking, creating an ecological material with extraordinary longevity.”

He suggests that this material can resist wear for decades, making it particularly effective in coastal areas where corrosion commonly affects steel structures. Orhiane Savarese, a key member of TechnoCarbon’s leadership team, underscores the importance of the solar carport as a proof of concept. She notes, “The solar industry faces a paradox: panels produce clean energy, but their supporting structures often rely on highly polluting materials.”

The carport serves as a viable alternative, significantly reducing emissions while providing long-term durability with minimal maintenance. With European regulations mandating that all parking lots be equipped with solar installations by 2030, the demand for low-carbon solutions is anticipated to rise sharply. TechnoCarbon is already garnering interest from supermarkets and infrastructure developers throughout Europe for its groundbreaking technology.

“This is just the beginning,” Savarese states. He emphasizes the often-overlooked carbon footprint associated with renewable energy infrastructure. “Our technology proves that it doesn’t have to. If we can cut emissions in the very materials we build with, we can change the trajectory of climate action.”

The solar carport in Provence not only marks a technological achievement but also embodies a larger vision for the future of renewable energy built on sustainable foundations. As the world moves towards greener solutions, TechnoCarbon is poised to play a pivotal role in reshaping the construction landscape.