100 kWp solar installation in Hernán Pérez uses LONGi back contact modules to strengthen local energy community

The Extremaduran municipality of Hernán Pérez (Cáceres) has commissioned a 100 kWp rooftop solar installation using more than150 LONGi’s Hi-MO X10 back contact modules, marking a new example of how advanced photovoltaic technology can support local energy communities and strengthen rural economies across Spain’s “España vaciada” (Empty Spain).  

Developed jointly by the Town Council of Hernán Pérez, LONGi Solar, and the installation partner Emececuadrado Group, and co-financed by the Provincial Council of Cáceres (covering 85% of the total cost), the system supplies clean electricity to the municipal buildings, the olive oil cooperative and other local facilities, achieving an estimated annual generation of 130,000 kWh. The project delivers direct energy cost reductions for public services and local production, while reinforcing energy independence and grid resilience at the community level.

“Projects like Hernán Pérez demonstrate how high-efficiency solar technology can accelerate the growth of energy communities,” said Pau Borredá, representative of LONGi Solar Iberia. “They make clean energy accessible, reduce local energy costs and ensure that the economic benefits of renewable generation remain within the community.”

Back contact technology maximises performance and reliability in Hernán Pérez installation

The installation comprises more than 150 LONGi Hi-MO X10 modules, each delivering up to 650 W with an average efficiency of around 24%. The modules use LONGi’s Hybrid Passivated Back Contact (HPBC 2.0) cell architecture, which removes front-side busbars to increase light absorption and raise conversion efficiency. Additionally, the integrated shading optimizer reduces power loss under partial shading by about 70% versus TOPCon and lowers operating and hotspot temperatures by ~28–29 °C, which improves safety and stabilizes output on complex rooftops in southern climates.

“At Emececuadrado Group, we always work with pioneering and proven brands such as LONGi,” explained Antonio Esperilla González, project manager at Emececuadrado. “The back contact architecture allows current to circulate more efficiently between cells, prevents shading losses and significantly increases the installation’s overall energy production.”

A model for local resilience and energy community development

Beyond its technical results, the project demonstrates the potential of distributed solar systems to strengthen local energy resilience and community cooperation. The generated electricity powers the town hall, public services and the olive oil cooperative, reducing the municipality’s dependence on the external grid and supporting long-term financial stability.

Hernán Pérez, with just over 400 residents, reflects the demographic and economic challenges faced by many small Spanish towns in the España vaciada - the so-called Empty Spain, a term used to describe the vast rural areas affected by depopulation and declining local economies. The project serves as a scalable example of how energy communities can contribute to regional development, combining decentralised generation, local ownership and shared economic value.

“This installation is a clear example of how quality solar technology and local engagement can drive sustainable growth in rural areas,” added Pau Borredá. “It underlines the role of distributed solar in achieving Europe’s energy transition targets while promoting social inclusion and regional cohesion.”

A video of the project can be viewed here