Pope Leo XIV has established the "Fratello Sole" Foundation, which is to carry out the energy transition of the Vatican. Its goal is to enable energy self-sufficiency while implementing the principles of integral ecology.
The new entity will specifically direct the development of an agrivoltaic project in Santa Maria di Galeria, located in the extraterritorial zone of the Holy See north of Rome. The decision was announced on June 2 by a papal chirograph signed on June 1.
This initiative is a continuation of the motu proprio "Fratello Sole," announced by Pope Francis on June 21, 2024. That document entrusted the Governorate of Vatican City State and the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA) with the mission of creating an agrivoltaic installation that would power the Vatican Radio station in Santa Maria di Galeria and contribute to the Vatican's energy supply. In his apostolic letter establishing the Foundation, Leo XIV explains that its creation aims to "concretize this commitment." He also presents this new institution as "a sign of hope for the future" and an example of the possibility of reconciling energy production with agricultural activity while respecting the environment.
The Foundation has Vatican legal personality, as well as asset, administrative, and accounting autonomy. Its headquarters are in Vatican City State, and its operational activities will be carried out in Santa Maria di Galeria.
The Foundation has a broad scope of tasks. It will be responsible for the construction, management, and financing of the agrivoltaic installation referred to in the agreement between the Holy See and the Italian Republic of May 27, 2026. It will also be responsible for the production, distribution, and monitoring of electricity for Vatican City State and various organizations linked to the Holy See. The agreement also provides for the possibility of developing other renewable energy projects if future energy demand requires it. The Foundation may establish partnerships with scientific institutions, public and private organizations, and Catholic structures to promote research, innovation, and the development of new, sustainable energy solutions.
Pope Leo XIV places this initiative within the framework of the Church's social teaching. The document references Pope Francis's encyclical "Laudato si'," the apostolic exhortation "Laudate Deum," and the motu proprio "Fratello Sole." The Foundation will promote responsible use of natural resources and sustainable environmental management, in accordance with the principles of Catholic social teaching.
For the first three years, the Pope has entrusted the leadership of the foundation to the President of the Governorate of Vatican City State, with the Vice President being the President of APSA. A three-member board of directors will oversee the management of the institution.
