- Agricultural unionists in Corrèze filed a complaint after a local official accused them of using “Nazi methods” during a protest against agrivoltaics projects.
- Protesters criticised agrivoltaics as land grabbing, arguing it harms farming by turning fertile land into energy zones.
- The Corrèze agricultural chamber continues to support agrivoltaics projects despite growing tensions over land use and the protection of agricultural land.
Agricultural unionists filed a complaint after a local official accused them of using “Nazi methods” during a protest against agrivoltaics projects in Corrèze. The rally, held on November 15, drew 80 to 100 members from the Confédération Paysanne and other agricultural groups. They protested agrivoltaics initiatives supported by the local agricultural chamber.
The demonstrators installed photovoltaic panels in a parking lot to symbolise their opposition to the Rural Land Company of Corrèze’s agrivoltaics projects. They argued that these projects were speculative and amounted to “land grabbing.” Protesters claimed the projects would transform fertile agricultural land into energy zones, harming crop yields and threatening farming practices.
Tensions escalated during a session of the agricultural chamber, where Confédération Paysanne members spoke. Pierre Beysserie, vice-president of the chamber and a member of the FDSEA (Fédération Départementale des Syndicats d’Exploitants Agricoles) criticised the protesters after the meeting. He accused them of using “Nazi methods.” Beysserie later clarified his comments, saying, “I didn’t say you were Nazis, but that your methods are.”
The remarks sparked outrage from other agricultural leaders. Jean-François Ensergueix of the Modef (Mouvement de Défense des Exploitants Familiaux) condemned Beysserie’s comments as “unacceptable.” Ensergueix and Confédération Paysanne representatives filed a complaint at the Tulle police station.
Agrivoltaics, which combines farming with energy production, divides opinions in Corrèze. Supporters argue it offers a solution to the energy transition by generating renewable energy using farmland. However, critics fear it will compromise agricultural productivity and lead to the loss of valuable land.
The Confédération Paysanne insists that photovoltaic panels should go on non-arable land, such as barns or parking lots. They argue that placing them on fertile land threatens the viability of farming. On the other hand, the FDSEA defends agrivoltaics, claiming it provides local economic benefits and sustainable development opportunities.
The broader debate reflects growing tensions over land use and energy transition policies. Agricultural stakeholders argue that farmers do not receive proper consultation and that projects prioritise land speculation over the needs of local communities. Many believe the current approach undermines agricultural livelihoods and makes it harder for farmers to remain competitive.
Beysserie’s comments have intensified these divisions. While he later acknowledged the harshness of his words, opponents see the remarks as an attempt to undermine their opposition. The incident highlights the deepening rift within the agricultural sector over balancing energy development with protecting agricultural land.
Meanwhile, the Corrèze agricultural chamber continues to back the Rural Land Company, which it sees as a means of ensuring collective economic benefits from the growth of photovoltaic energy projects. Despite the ongoing controversy, the chamber remains committed to advancing agrivoltaics in the region, believing it can drive sustainable local development.