Established in 2000, Beauvent operates in Flanders, Belgium, promoting community-owned renewable energy solutions. It has over 8,500 members and has developed 29 solar installations, three wind farms, six cogeneration projects, and one district heating network. The cooperative collaborates extensively with businesses, installing solar panels on commercial rooftops and offering companies stable energy prices through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).

One key project involved installing 4,500 solar panels at Barry Callebaut’s production sites, where employees were encouraged to invest before the opportunity opened to other members. Similarly, at Alpro, 60 employees contributed €100,000 to a 435 kWp solar installation and a combined heat and power system. Partnerships with timber trader Lemahieu Group and bathroom retailer Van Marcke have further expanded community solar, engaging local residents in investments.

Beauvent’s largest project to date -15,000 solar panels at Lemahieu Group - now supplies 46% of Ghent’s municipal electricity. Through these initiatives, the cooperative has enabled thousands of citizens to invest in renewable energy, offering annual returns between 3.25% and 6%. It also supports local sustainability projects, including electric car-sharing schemes and the distribution of locally generated electricity to its members.

By fostering win-win partnerships, Beauvent provides businesses with economic and environmental benefits while expanding community energy initiatives. These collaborations demonstrate how cooperatives and private enterprises can jointly address climate change, securing a cleaner and more resilient energy future.