How Lyon Salvagny Golf Club Reduced Its Energy Costs with Solar

Running a golf club comes with significant energy demands. Irrigation systems, lighting, clubhouse HVAC, maintenance equipment - costs add up fast. Lyon Salvagny Golf Club decided to tackle the issue head‑on by switching to solar energy with SunPower.

Why Go Solar? The Club’s Motivation

François Tirard, the club’s general manager, puts it simply:

“Energy management has become essential given today’s costs. We have to pay close attention.”

Arnaud Capelasse, Managing Director of Cap Eco Énergie - SunPower partner installer for over a decade - shares the same view:

“Electricity prices in France have risen sharply. Golf courses and other professionals are looking for significant savings on their energy bills.”

Beyond financial benefits, the club also wanted to reinforce its environmental commitment.
As François Tirard explains:

“It’s something our members expect from us. Sustainability is part of responsible management.”

Why SunPower? Performance, Warranty & Proven Reliability

According to Arnaud Capelasse, the choice was clear:

“SunPower is renowned for the quality, durability and performance of its technology. Their solar cells incorporate numerous patented innovations that make them exceptionally robust and efficient.”

What stood out to the club:

• 30‑year warranty on the SunPower Performance panels installed
• More than 40 years of experience in solar innovation
• Panels designed for a lifespan of over 35 years

Explore all SunPower warranties and solutions for businesses.

A Smart, Seamless Installation

Cap Eco Énergie delivered a solution that fit the club’s architecture and natural environment.
Architect Charlotte Bollard (Ilo Ilo Architecture) explains:

“The goal was to find an aesthetic integration - panels that would remain discreet and blend into the structure.”

Installation key figures:

• 128 SunPower Performance P7‑450 W modules
• Total capacity: 57.6 kWp
• Estimated annual production: 59,334 kWh

François Tirard highlights the quality of support throughout the project:

“We felt surrounded by reliable professionals. Cap Eco guided us exceptionally well.”

Real, Measurable Results

Immediate Savings

“You see the impact right away. The savings start the moment the system is turned on,” says Tirard.

ROI in Under 5 Years

A standout figure: return on investment in under 5 years.

As Arnaud Capelasse explains:
“The installation pays for itself in less than five years through the savings it generates. And you’re left with a system guaranteed for 30 years, with a lifespan exceeding 35.”

From the very first months, the benefits are already measurable. The club has reduced its electricity bill by 12.5%, saving €10,500 per year, while covering 12.5% of its total energy needs through solar power. Ninety‑five percent of the energy produced is consumed directly on‑site. Performance is even 3.5% higher than initial estimates. On the environmental side, the installation avoids 24 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

After the payback period, the system will continue producing clean, free energy for more than 30 years.

An Example Other Clubs Are Already Watching

According to François Tirard:

“This is a recurring topic among golf club managers. Naturally, we’ll be sharing our experience with other clubs.”

Arnaud Capelasse agrees:

“Many golf courses could benefit from the same approach. Anyone with high electricity consumption needs a sustainable energy solution.”

Your Sports Facility Can Make the Switch Too

Whether you operate a golf course, tennis club, or any sports facility, the benefits are the same:

• Immediate savings
• Fast ROI
• A concrete step toward sustainability

And the timing has never been better. As Capelasse notes:

“Electricity prices will continue rising in the coming years. Every year you wait is lost savings.”

In 2026 and beyond, solar remains a smart, future‑proof investment - especially with the right partner by your side.

Ready to follow Lyon Salvagny Golf Club’s example?

Find a SunPower partner installer and explore SunPower’s product range to start your project.

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