- Location: Barkava parish, Madona municipality, Latvia
- Capacity: 81 MW
- Type of production: Hybrid (solar + ready for BESS and wind)
- EPC contractor: BT Power SIA
- Construction started: Q4 2024
- Expected commissioning: 2026
- Electricity generated: covers the annual consumption of ~36,000 households
It is one of the largest renewable energy projects in the region and ranks among the top 10 largest solar projects planned at the national level.
Project Timeline and Construction Progress
Construction began in late 2024 and is progressing steadily toward full operation in 2026.
“The construction process is progressing rapidly and according to the planned schedule. So far, we have completed several key stages — by the mid-May all cable trenching and laying has been carried out, access roads have been built, and metal structures for 61 MW out of the total 81 MW have already been assembled. Currently, solar panel (PV) installation works are actively underway. As soon as weather conditions improve, we plan to transport and install the transformer at the substation, with each unit weighing up to 20 tons,” Toms Bergs, Chairman of the Board, BT Power SIA.
Second Park in the Area
This is Sunly’s second solar park in the Barkava area — the first (11 MWp) was visited in 2024 by the current Minister of Climate and Energy, Kaspars Melnis, and Mayor of Madona, Agris Lungevičs.
When visited, K. Melnis emphasized the importance of companies thinking about developing economically efficient models, considering BESS systems and the addition of possible wind turbines to the same connection point.
Mayor Agris Lungevičs stated: “I see that projects in this sector, when implemented thoughtfully, can also contribute to the development of the specific area. Looking at it from a broader security perspective, it is important that we can produce more and more of our energy locally.”
Community Engagement and Lessons Learned
Sunly’s approach is not only focused on infrastructure — community engagement is a core part of every project. In Barkava, we are currently supporting a community improvement project to renovate and develop the public swimming area in the village centre. In addition, Sunly has provided support for local sports activities, including the Madona Ski Race 2025, where we sponsored the Youth 2.5 km distance.
“Projects like Barkava show that renewables and local community can prosper side by side. That’s why we always listen to what matters for people in the area and contribute in a meaning full way. At the same time, the project has reminded us how crucial sound technical decisions are — from choosing the most efficient equipment and professional EPC partner,” Toms Nāburgs, Sunly Country Manager in Latvia.
