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Solar Energy

Market for hybrid power plants in Europe still in the starting blocks

March 20, 2025



Combining solar and wind parks with large battery storage systems at a single location, known as co-location, offers many advantages. For example, the risks for the operators of the renewable energy generation plants are reduced by diversifying revenues, protecting against price cannibalization and shifting generation or feed-in to the evening hours. The economic efficiency of battery storage can be increased by cost savings due to a common grid connection point and a faster grid connection. Advantages for the power supply arise from fewer grid bottlenecks, avoided curtailment of plants and better utilization of scarce grid resources.

So far only small market share for hybrid systems

However, the market for renewable co-location projects in Europe is only just beginning. According to Aurora Energy Research, solar and wind farms with an installed capacity of almost 1.2 gigawatts (GW) were in operation across Europe in 2023, combined with large-scale battery storage. PV plus battery storage was the frontrunner here with 724 megawatts (MW), while onshore wind power plus battery storage was at 475 MW. According to SolarPower Europe, of the 0.8 GW of large-scale battery storage systems with a capacity of 1.1 gigawatt-hours (GWh) installed in Germany between 2021 and 2023, 11 percent were combined with renewable energy plants, primarily solar parks. In the UK, 12 percent of wind and solar farms were combined with battery storage or electrolysers, according to an April 2024 report by industry association Renewable UK.

Download now for free: Our new hybrid special

However, experts and industry representatives are seeing a significant increase in demand for large-scale battery storage and co-location projects. In Germany, project developers have currently submitted grid connection requests for 161 GW of battery storage capacity, which is a hundred times more than the 1.6 GW currently installed. SolarPower Europe also predicts strong growth in large-scale battery storage in its “European Market Outlook for Battery Storage 2024-2028”. According to a medium scenario, the total installed battery storage capacity is expected to climb to 78 GWh, double the 2023 figure (35.8 GWh).

Growing interest in co-location projects

In a “high scenario”, installed battery capacity in Europe is expected to grow to 135 GWh by 2028. Large batteries, especially grid storage (so-called utility-scale storage), will dominate. Their share of newly installed capacity is expected to rise to 45% by 2028, more than doubling from 2023 (21 percent). As a result, interest in co-location projects is also growing, according to analysts such as Jannik Carl and Eva Zimmermann from Aurora Energy Research. Almost all large-scale PV projects are now combined with battery storage, says Stefan Müller, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the EPC Enerparc.

Co-located solar park for a resilient grid completed in Sweden

Valerii Lazarev, Projects Bankability Manager at WElink Energy, sees negative electricity prices (at peak times), bottlenecks and high costs for grid access as important drivers for co-location projects. EPCs could benefit from the hybridization of existing solar projects by flattening the production curve and delivering energy on demand and thus at higher prices. And this with comparatively low investment costs because there is no need to set up a new, expensive grid connection.

Largest hybrid plant in Portugal

The international developer, based in Ireland, is currently in the process of expanding a 219 MW solar park in Vaquieros (southern Portugal), which was commissioned at the end of 2021, in several phases into a co-location facility with a capacity of over 1 terawatt-hour, according to Lazarev. Initially, the existing 219 MW of PV capacity will be increased by a further 50 MW, followed by the construction of a 165 MW wind farm and then a 100 MW/400 MWh battery storage facility. Construction is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025 and should be completed by the end of 2027.

How to combine agri-PV with wind power and storage?

Europe’s largest co-location power plant is currently being built by the Spanish energy producer Endesa, also in Portugal (Pego, province of Santarém). The plan is to combine a 365 MW PV plant, a wind farm with 264 MW and a 168 MW battery storage facility. In addition, a 500-kilowatt (kW) electrolyzer will be installed to produce green hydrogen using surplus energy that the battery storage system cannot absorb.

Further cost decline an important driver

The continued decline in costs, particularly for photovoltaics and battery storage, is also an important driver for more co-location projects. According to a study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in July 2024, the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of solar parks in Germany is between 4.1 and 6.9 euro cents/kWh. When combining ground-mounted PV systems and battery storage, the LCOE is 6.0 to 10.8 cents/KWh.

Large battery storage systems in Europe are all the rage

Should battery prices fall to the predicted levels of 180 to 700 euros/KWh by 2045, the ISE even expects production costs for ground-mounted PV battery systems to be between 3.1 and 5.0 cents. By comparison, the production costs for fossil fuel power plants are significantly higher today: brown coal power plants cost 15.1 to 25.7 cents, hard coal power plants 17.3 to 29.3 cents, combined cycle power plants 10.9 to 18.1 cents and flexible gas power plants 15.4 to 32.6 cents per kilowatt hour. Nuclear power plants are between 13.6 and 49.0 cents/kWh.

Reduce construction and operation costs by 50 %

According to Aurora Energy Research, the actual increases in profitability (IRRs) that can currently be achieved by combining a solar power plant with a battery storage system in key European markets are in the range of one to just over two percent. The IRRs of individual solar parks were compared with those that are combined with a battery storage system.

Podcast: Prospects and pitfalls for investments in solar and large battery projects

RenewableUK points out the high potential cost advantages of co-location projects if regulatory barriers are removed and approvals are simplified. Combining PV projects with battery storage at the same grid connection point could reduce construction and operating costs by 50 percent. In addition, a more flexible energy system with the integration of storage in the UK would save 16.7 billion pounds (19.8 billion euros) in electricity system costs annually by 2050, which would also benefit electricity customers.

Complexity and regulation as obstacles

There are various reasons why co-location projects are often unable to fully exploit their potential cost advantages in practice and why the number of projects implemented is only gradually picking up speed. “In addition to regulatory issues, this combination of technologies is extremely complex in terms of structure and commercialization. Business models must be considered individually and, depending on local parameters, a single project can often be more attractive than a co-location project,” says Philipp Kraemer, Director Strategic Growth & Digitization at CCE.

Solar Investors Guide: Storage systems to revolutionize the grid

In Germany, for example, the so-called exclusivity principle of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) has so far slowed down the economic viability of solar and wind farms combined with battery storage. It states that EEG-subsidized plants may only be charged with green electricity and not with gray electricity (from the grid) throughout the year, otherwise the EEG plant status or the subsidy will be lost. This severely limits a profitable, flexible operation of the storage system in co-location with a solar or wind farm for shifting the feed-in to high-price hours and for providing balancing energy (during which grid electricity is also charged).

UK, Ireland and Italy already further ahead

According to the solar package I, it should be possible to change the operating mode every two months from June 2025, and to charge the storage system from the grid and the renewable energy system in parallel from June 2026. However, Aurora analyst Zimmermann fears delays in the regulation coming into force in Germany, because the Federal Network Agency, which is responsible for the regulation, has not yet decided on a measurement concept. Other European countries, such as the United Kingdom, Ireland and Italy, which allow flexible operation of co-location systems, are already further ahead in this respect, says Zimmermann.

Expert analysis: Battery storage as a business model for PV

Intersolar Europe, which is taking place this year from May 7-9, offers a comprehensive overview of the latest products, technologies and solutions, as well as the major trends in the field of PV hybrid power plants. At the accompanying Intersolar Europe Conference, there will be a session in English from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, titled “Hybrid PV Power Plants II: Strategies for Matching Energy Generation & Power Demand.” On Thursday, May 8, the topic of hybrid power plants will be the subject of a session in English at the Intersolar Forum (Hall A3, Booth A3.150) from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. (hcn)





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Solar Energy

Fimer makes a new start – participation at KEY in Rimini

February 25, 2025



The choice to participate in this event comes at a turning point for Fimer. Indeed, the takeover of a new ownership and substantial investments have allowed the company to return fully operational. Further future investments of over 50 million euros will allow Fimer to achieve a renewed financial solidity and focus on the development of new products.

Italy: KEY in Rimini as showcase for energy transition

KEY represents a unique opportunity for FIMER to showcase its latest technologies for the photovoltaic market, the company announced.. Among the same, the Power platform, including single-phase and three-phase inverters with a storage system for the residential segment, deserves to be mentioned, as well as the new high-power three-phase inverter PVS-75/125 and the line of inverters PVS-10/33 which are designed for C&I projects.

Power platform: PowerUNO, PowerTRIO and PowerX

The Fimer residential solutions portfolio offers a wide range of innovative string inverters and versatile solutions for energy storage that guarantee the maximization of self-consumption. In particular, the new Power platform includes a single-phase inverter, PowerUNO, a three-phase inverter, PowerTRIO and a modular storage system, PowerX.

PowerUNO and PowerTRIO represent the new generation of hybrid, single-phase and three-phase inverters. They are available in a wide range of power sizes, from 2 to 6 kW for single-phase and from 4 to 10 kW for three-phase, allowing the needs of projects of any size to be met, whether they are new installations or revamping.

The two 16 A MPPTs guarantee maximum compatibility with most photovoltaic modules and optimize the use of energy from the solar panels. Installation is considerably simplified thanks to the Plug&Play connections accessible from the outside and the presence of a single output intended for both standard operating conditions and backup situations. Finally, integrated connectivity allows real-time monitoring, offering complete control over the system’s performance.

Acquisition of Italian inverter manufacturer Fimer completed

PowerX is a response to the growing demand for storage systems. Designed with minimal dimensions, it allows for quick and easy installation. This modular battery system offers the possibility to expand the storage capacity at any time. Each PowerX system allows the installation of three 5 kWh battery modules, for a total of 15 kWh. Furthermore, it is possible to connect two systems together, thus reaching a maximum of 30 kWh, a notable flexibility that satisfies every energy storage need.

KEY Rimini 2025: Focus on renewable opportunity for the Mediterranean region

PowerUNO and PowerX are already available on the market and can be ordered. PowerTRIO is under certification and will be released soon.

Main features of PowerUNO and PowerTRIO

–  Hybrid inverters, installation on the DC or AC side

–  Compact design

–  Small and light, but robust and powerful

–  Wide range of power sizes (from 2,0 kW to 10 kW)

–  Backup capacity respectively of up to 6 kW and 10 kW

–  External Plug&Play connections (no need to open the front cover)

–  Built-in communication devices: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB

–  Conversion efficiency +98%

–  Super quiet, with noise level below 40 dBA

–  Free remote monitoring through the “Energy Viewer” App

–  Built-in arc fault detection system (AFCI)

 Main features of PowerX

– Preassembled Plug&Play cable for the connection to the inverter

– Up to 3 battery modules per system for a capacity of 15 kWh

– Up to two systems can be connected for a total of 30 kWh

– Maximum load/unload power 5 kW

– Lightweight. Allows an easy handling, transportation and maintenance

– Possibility to add an energy storage system anytime

– LFP (Lithium-iron-phosphate)

PVS-75/125: the new battery ready three-phase inverter

With three power sizes (75 kW, 100 kW and 125 kW) and up to 12 MPPTs, which can be paralleled according to project needs, this battery ready inverter is designed to offer an innovative and flexible solar solution for commercial & industrial applications.

Particularly compact and light and designed to allow rapid installation and easy maintenance, this new solution by Fimer represents an important step in the path that the company is taking to conquer the market through innovation, research and the quality of Made in Italy products.

Main features of the new PVS-75/125:

– Battery ready

– Fuse-free design

– Optimized weight and volume

– Quick to install, easy to maintain

– 24/7 remote monitoring

§  Real-time I-V curve available

PVS-10/33 range: three-phase string inverters

When visiting the Fimer booth, do not miss the three-phase string inverter solutions PVS-10/15 and PVS-20/33, designed to meet the needs of C&I projects. These inverters, available in different power sizes, respectively from 10 kW to 15 kW and from 20 kW to 33 kW, stand out for their ability to optimize construction and operating costs.

Thanks to their versatility, these solutions are suitable for any type of application, both for new and existing systems, with low installation and maintenance costs. Quick installation and commissioning, as well as simplified maintenance with a fuseless design, are just some of the distinguishing features of these products.

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The advanced integrated communication features ensure flawless interoperability with new digital technologies, while the integrated Wi-Fi/Ethernet connectivity allows the creation of networks flexible based on TCP/IP at low costs. Furthermore, the ease of replacement of any network device allows for easy and convenient management of the infrastructure.

SolarPower Europe calls for action plan to save the European PV inverter industry

In the context of retrofitting, this range of inverters stands out for its remarkable flexibility in adapting to existing photovoltaic field configurations, offering tailor-made solutions for each project.

Main features of PVS-10/33:

– Compact inverters suitable for vertical and horizontal installation

– Fuse free design

– Maximum string voltage 1100 Vdc

– Compatible with bifacial photovoltaic modules

– Integrated Export Limitation function

– Single string current monitoring

– Arc fault detection system (optional)

– 10% additional power available with temperatures up to 30°C (PVS-20/33)

– PID recovery function (optional)

Fimer exhibits at Pavilion D3 / Booth 421 at KEY.  (hcn)





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Solar Energy

RWE starts operation of its first solar plant

February 25, 2025



RWE has commissioned its first solar plant in Italy. The 8.3 megawatt (MW) Bosco ground-mounted solar plant consists of around 15,000 bifacial modules. The photovoltaic plant is located on a 16-hectare site in the municipality of Partinico near Palermo, Sicily.

KEY Rimini 2025: Focus on renewable opportunity for the Mediterranean region

Thanks to the implementation of a new accelerated permitting process in Italy, RWE was able to achieve Ready to Build in less than 18 months. Construction took around ten months. In order to optimise the use of land and resources, as well as to tackle grid scarcity, the Bosco solar plant uses the existing nearby RWE substation in Partinico, from which the local RWE wind farms already feed green electricity into the grid.

Protecting biodiversity

To operate the plant in harmony with the local ecosystem a wildlife-friendly fence was installed to allow safe passage for small animals. There is enough space between the ground and the bottom wire to allow animals such as foxes and rabbits to pass underneath. This voluntary measure reflects RWE’s commitment to a positive impact on biodiversity when delivering renewable energy projects.

Italy: KEY in Rimini as showcase for energy transition

“With the commissioning of Bosco, our first solar plant in Italy is up and running, with more projects to come. Solar is a perfect match for our growing wind fleet in Italy, as solar and wind complement each other perfectly as their production patterns naturally balance each other. Bosco is a flagship project in the field of efficiency, both in terms of the permitting process and grid access. We look forward to the next milestones in our journey to support a clean, stable and cost-effective energy future for Italy», Katja Wünschel, CEO RWE Renewables Europe & Australias said.

Integrated approach for renewables in Italy

RWE takes an integrated project approach that incorporates the development, construction and operation as well as marketing of wind farms and solar plants in Italy. As of today, the company operates 16 onshore wind farms with a combined installed capacity of 527 MW in the country. With its onshore fleet, RWE supplies around 450,000 Italian households with green electricity every year. The company is currently constructing the 53 MW Mondonuovo wind farm in the Apulia region. In addition to wind and the Bosco project, RWE is constructing its first commercial scale Agri-PV plants Morcone (9.8 MW) and Acquafredda (9.3 MW) in Campania region. (hcn)





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Solar Energy

RWE builds two huge agri-PV plants in Italy

February 21, 2025



The energy company RWE was successful in the tender for subsidies for agri-PV plants in Italy, with two projects. The plants are subsidised by means of a contract for difference. After commissioning, the electricity is sold on the electricity stock exchange at the current price. RWE is compensated by the state for the difference between the price specified in the tender, which RWE needs to operate the plant economically, and the selling price on the market. If the price sold on the stock exchange exceeds the price auctioned, RWE must pay the excess revenue. In addition, RWE receives an investment subsidy of a maximum of 40 per cent.

PV from field and barn: Our special for the dual harvest on farms

Start-up scheduled for the end of 2025

The two plants are being built in the south-western province of Benevento in Campania. One of the two plants with a capacity of 9.8 megawatts is being built in Morcone, roughly 40 kilometres north-east of Naples. The Acquafredda solar park with an output of 9.3 megawatts is being built some 30 kilometres further north. The plants comprise a total of approximately 32,500 modules. RWE has now started construction of the two plants. Both agri-PV systems should be connected to the grid by the end of 2025.

Don’t miss any important information about the solar energy transition in agriculture! Simply subscribe to our free newsletter.

Modules are elevated on high trackers

The two systems are built as tracker installations. The solar modules are turned around an axis at a height of three metres. This not only fulfils the requirements regarding the usability of the area for agriculture. It will also increase the energy yield, as the tracked modules are better aligned with the position of the sun than a fix-mounted system. Crops will be harvested below the panels in a fully integrated energy-agri system, increasing agricultural production while optimising land use. I Additionally, the solar modules protect these crops from hail, frost, drought and heavy rain.

Agri-PV: How to succeed on the path to regenerative and sustainable agriculture

Improving technology

Once the plant has been commissioned, RWE will analyse how the shading affects the development of the plants and the actual yields generated by the solar modules. RWE intends to use the data from this monitoring to further develop its agri-PV technologies. „The start of construction marks the realisation of our world-first agri-PV projects on a commercial scale, with more to come“, Katja Wünschel, CEO RWE Renewables Europe & Australia, holds out the prospect. „Sunny Italy is also a perfect market for this technology. Advanced agri-PV helps us to use the scarce resource of land responsibly and efficiently, generating two different yields – agriculture and renewable energy – from the same land. Win-win at its best“, she states. (su)





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Solar Energy

TIM enters energy market with 100% renewable offer

February 20, 2025



The TIM Group is entering the utility market and launching TIM Energia, the electricity offer designed to meet the consumption needs of business owners, professionals and small and medium-sized companies.

TIM Energia was created through a strategic partnership with supplier Axpo Italia S.p.A., a company part of the Swiss Axpo Group, operating in 40 international markets and with over 100 years of experience in developing energy solutions.

Axpo starts construction of 20 MW solar park in northern Italy

The new energy initiative is aimed at helping businesses, from manufacturers and professional services to bars and restaurants, optimise their energy management and strengthen the TIM Group’s presence in Italy’s SME sector. Business customers signing up for TIM Energia will have access to a simple, reliable and competitive energy offering, with the electricity they purchase certified by Guarantees of Origin to be from 100 per cent renewable sources.

Flex or Fix offer for companies

Companies can choose between the Flex offer, guaranteeing maximum flexibility with an indexed price that follows market trends, or the Fix offer with a price fixed for 24 months, ideal for those who want greater stability and protection from market fluctuations. For the launch of the service, TIM Energia customers will be offered an exclusive benefit with an annual discount of 50 euros from their bill.

Italy: KEY in Rimini as showcase for the energy transition

TIM’s Chief Consumer, Small & Medium and Mobile Wholesale Market Officer Andrea Rossini said: “We want our customers to see us as an ever more important partner, offering them services with high added-value that support them in their everyday business. TIM’s partnership with Axpo allows us to enter the energy market with solutions designed specifically for small and medium-sized companies. We can now offer SMEs not only the best connectivity and technology solutions, but a tailor-made service dedicated to supplying energy from renewable sources, all of which enables them to successfully tackle today’s market challenges.”

Supporting the sustainable energy strategies of  companies

Axpo Italia General Manager Ivanhoe Romin said: “The growth strategy of Axpo Italia, as we celebrate 25 years in Italy, includes the capacity to provide innovative solutions that meet the needs of our partners and their customers. This agreement, which facilitates TIM’s entry into the country’s energy market, represents a new milestone in Axpo’s Italian journey. As market pioneers, we continue to support a wide range of Italian companies, from small to large, by providing flexible energy solutions that safeguard their competitiveness in today’s highly volatile markets.”

SolarPower Summit 2025: Welcome to the solar flex era

TIM Energia is the latest initiative of the TIM Group’s ‘Customer Platform’ strategy, aimed at offering customers advanced services with greater added value. It means that from today, in addition to the group’s existing expertise in the process of digital transformation through solutions in connectivity, artificial intelligence, cloud, cybersecurity and the Internet of Things (IoT), TIM will be supporting companies in the implementation of their sustainable energy strategies. (hcn)





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Solar Energy

KEY in Rimini as showcase for energy transition

February 11, 2025



A larger exhibition area with a redesigned event layout to increase business and networking opportunities. Greater international scope with the involvement of an increasing number of buyers, delegations and qualified operators from all over the world. Focus on innovation and the green skills needed to achieve the energy transition. New projects and thematic areas for a complete view of the energy of the future.

These are the credentials with which the new edition of KEY – The Energy Transition Expo, the event organised by IEG (Italian Exhibition Group) on energy transition and efficiency. The new appointment, scheduled from 5th to 7th March 2025 at Rimini Expo Centre is expected to see a growth of more than 20 % of exhibiting brands, according to IEG.

Also see: KEY Rimini 2025 – Focus on renewable opportunity for the Mediterranean region

The topics of the event will range from agrivoltaics to Renewable Energy Communities, green residential and industrial redevelopment, electric mobility, hydrogen, the role of local administrations, reflections on energy cost containment, regulatory aspects and new financial opportunities up to artificial intelligence and nuclear power.

KEY 2025 wants to consolidate its role as a global reference network capable of bringing together all the players involved in the energy transition and favouring meetings, debates and dialogue with the Institutions. The aim it to create a system and contribute to speeding up the decarbonisation process.

Also see: Italy – Kostal and EPC utilise former industrial roof for PV

Moreover, the event also provides a opportunity for companies and professionals that want to rationalise their consumption and reduce the energy and environmental impact of their activities, to learn about possible solutions and the latest technologies available on the market.

Over 90,000 m2 exhibition area

With over 90,000 m2 of exhibition area, KEY’s new layout includes the very first opening of the West Entrance, an addition to the South and East Entrances. The layout of the halls has also been reorganised, a total of 20 compared to the 16 at the 2024 edition, equally distributed along the East and West wings of the Expo Centre. The seven product sectors – solar and photovoltaic, wind energy, hydrogen, energy storage, energy efficiency, electric mobility and sustainable cities – are all confirmed, flanked by special areas dedicated to transversal projects, networking, innovation and training.

Also see: Agri-PV project with 48 megawatts of power to be built in Sardinia

The new arrangement aims to plot a defined exhibition route through the seven, well-defined yet interconnected thematic areas, maximise existing synergies and improve the visitor experience, the organizers announced.

Thematic focus on hydrogen and electrification of ports

The layout’s new features include an enhancement of the hydrogen area and a thematic focus on ports: HYPE – Hydrogen Power Expo supported by Hydrogen & Fuel Cells: a real trade show organised by Italian Exhibition Group and Hannover Fairs International GmbH (HFI), the Italian branch of Deutsche Messe AG, where the topic of hydrogen and its importance for the energy transition will be explored.

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Su.port – Sustainable Ports for Energy Transition: an exhibition focus, to be inaugurated at KEY 2025, dedicated to the electrification of port docks, essential for reducing emissions, promoting sustainability in ports and accelerating the development of off-shore wind power, particularly floating wind farms.

Green Jobs & Skill initiative

For the first time, KEY will host the Green Jobs & Skill initiative to foster the encounter between labour market supply and demand with the aim of helping to bridge the green skills gap that is still common within companies. The project is a valuable training and career guidance opportunity for students and young workers, but also an opportunity for companies to meet potential candidates and intercept the most promising talents.

Unlock the future of PPA

On Tuesday 4th March 2025, the eve of KEY, at Rimini’s Palacongressi conference centre, the second edition of KEY CHOICE – Unlock the future of PPAs, KEY – The Energy Transition Expo’s B2B event on Power Purchase Agreements, organised by IEG (Italian Exhibition Group) in collaboration with Elemens.

More about KEY

Also Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) and Confindustria Assafrica & Mediterraneo have entered into a collaboration to promote the activities of the trade fair Ecomondo and KEY. The objective is to intensify relations with African and Middle Eastern countries in 2025-2026 through the network of accredited embassies in Italy, the Italian diplomatic network and key local stakeholders. Ecomondo 2025 will be held at the Rimini Fair from November 4 to 7. (hcn)





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Solar Energy

Kostal and EPC utilise former industrial roof for PV

February 7, 2025



The Italian government has drastically restricted the construction of photovoltaic systems on open spaces. With the exception of agri-PV, it is now completely prohibited on arable land. Industrial roofs offer a way out. The project developer EPC Elettronica Italia in the province of Lecce in Apulia has shown what something like this can look like – albeit on a smaller scale than on open land.

Join our free webinar February 12, about planning and design of large PV rooftops

9,000 square metres built on

The company has installed a solar generator with an output of one megawatt on the roof of a former tobacco processing plant. The modules are located on the roof of the old factory, which covers an area of 9,000 square metres. With optimum solar radiation and no shaded areas, the company can maximise its yield at this location. After all, the southern Italian region of Apulia has one of the highest irradiation rates per square metre on the entire Apennine peninsula.

20 inverters installed

EPC also achieves its high output by using bifacial modules. These feed the solar power into 20 Piko CI inverters from Kostal Solar Elektrik. The commercial inverters from the manufacturer based in Hagen, Westphalia, each have an output power of 50 kilowatts. “The bifacial modules had to be connected to inverters that are capable of handling a very high current: One of the special features of Kostal’s devices is that they support currents of up to 18 amps, making them suitable for this type of installation,” explains Paolo Melandri, Field Marketing Engineer at Kostal. “In addition, the type of devices used also allowed us to optimise the configuration of the strings.“

Also see: Acquisition of Italian inverter manufacturer Fimer completed

Practical test of the flexibility of the inverters

The plant in Apulia was one of the first photovoltaic systems in Italy to be installed with such a large number of inverters from the Piko CI series. “For us, this was a practical test of the flexibility of our inverters, as they are rarely used in such a large number of systems with such a high output,” says Riccardo Frassanito, Service Manager at Kostal. “It also confirmed the ability of our products to easily manage data transmission and the interaction between the various devices. This ensures efficient monitoring, even with such a large number of installed devices.“

Also see: First Renewable Energy Community in Lombardy with large PV rooftop project

1.41 gigawatt hours of solar power per year

The bifacial modules ensure a high yield. The planners assume that the generator will supply around 1.41 gigawatt hours of clean electricity every year. All of the energy generated is fed into the grid and sold via an electricity trader. The latter has concluded a purchase agreement with EPC for the solar energy generated. (su/hcn)





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Solar Energy

1.5 gigawatts of agri-PV will receive funding

January 28, 2025



The Italian electricity regulator Gestore dei Servizi Energetici (GSE) has published the results of the latest tender for the support of agri-PV systems. Rome is funding the construction of a total of 540 projects of this type with a total capacity of 1,548 megawatts.

Bids with 1.7 gigawatts registered

Agri-PV is the only option in Italy for constructing solar plants on agricultural land. All other forms of solar parks on such land are not permitted. However, to support the growth of photovoltaics, the Italian government issued a decree in December 2023 to support agri-PV systems. Part of the funding is granted in the form of an investment subsidy. A second part of the funds will be awarded in the form of market premiums (contract for difference). A total of 643 projects with a total output of 1.7 gigawatts took part in the tender for these subsidies. As many as four out of five proposals were approved by the GSE.

Don’t miss any important information about the solar energy transition in agriculture! Simply subscribe to our free newsletter.

EU money used

The tender took place as part of the Italian government’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza – PNRR). Rome is using this plan to distribute the financial resources that Italy has received from the EU from the Next Generation EU economic stimulus package. After all, there is almost 200 billion euros in this funding pot.

Agri-PV project with 48 megawatts of power to be built in Sardinia

Farmers show great interest in solar energy

This is intended to finance digitalisation, innovation, the energy transition, the development of infrastructure for sustainable mobility, education and research, cohesion and inclusion as well as healthcare. „It is a very encouraging result that confirms the optimal definition of the measure provided for in the PNRR, but above all confirms the immense interest of agricultural businesses in solutions that enable high-quality food production with parallel renewable energy solutions,“ emphasises Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, with regard to the many applications for the promotion of agri-PV systems.

Farmers have to be involved

Finally, a prerequisite for participation in the tender was that the project is not only implemented by EPC companies. Rather, at least one agricultural business must be directly involved in the project. A portion of the tendered capacity is also reserved for smaller plants with a maximum power of one megawatt, which are financed by the farms themselves. In addition, the systems may not significantly impair agricultural production. For this reason, support is primarily granted for systems that are either vertically mounted or whose modules are moved using a tracker.

How to activate agricultural areas to produce solar electricity

Agri-PV from 200 kilowatts to over 200 megawatts

There is a correspondingly wide range in the size of the systems that receive support. For example, a farmer in Sicily will install an agri-PV system with an output of 199 kilowatts. However, an agri-PV power plant with an output of 213.7 megawatts will also be built in Sicily under the leadership of the project planner Sun Project. (su)





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Solar Energy

Focus on renewable opportunity for the Mediterranean region

January 22, 2025



In Italy, the Fer-X decree is expected to launch the new tender volumes for wind farms and onshore photovoltaics, and the Fer-2 decree for a range of other technologies. While Fer-2 has been in force since December and is intended to get biomass energy plants and renewable technologies with higher costs, such as offshore wind power, off the ground with tenders for 3.8 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2028, the launch of Fer-X is now imminent. The significance of the KEY trade fair in Rimini from March 5 to 7, including a program on the evening of March 4, at this point in time is explained by Alessandra Astolfi, Global Exhibition Director at the trade fair company IEG.

The energy transition in Italy could soon gain clarity through the so-called FER-X interim decree for future tenders for onshore wind energy and photovoltaic projects, as well as the FER-2 decree for offshore wind farm projects, regarding the decisive initial phase of its progress towards 2030. Will Key 25 in Rimini mark the starting point for this?

Alessandra Astolfi: The energy transition is a process that is already in full swing and that cannot and must not be stopped. There is still a long way to go to achieve the goals that arise from the need to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. We have a huge opportunity to develop and ensure security and independence in the field of energy supply. However, its implementation requires cooperation in order to find joint, consensual solutions that accelerate the path to decarbonization.

In this respect, KEY plays a leading role in this transformation. It is able to bring together all the main industry players in Rimini for three days and promote meetings, discussions, exchanges and dialogue with the institutions. As a testament to the huge momentum driving the market and the interest in our event, we expect KEY 25 to see over 20 percent more brand exhibitors than in 2024, as well as numerous buyers, international representatives and qualified professionals from around the world.

Also see: Italy – CCE concluded € 24 mio. transaction with Commerzbank for a 42 MW solar park

You can use the events and conferences to find out about innovations and the future of energy and to stay up to date, while gaining a cross-industry view of all the sectors involved in the energy transition. Photovoltaics and especially agri-PV, onshore and offshore wind energy, energy efficiency in industry and in the residential sector, electric mobility, urban renewal, hydrogen, energy storage and renewable energy communities are just a few of the many topics.

Can the exhibition promote the participation of southern European companies in Italy’s energy transition by showing them the opportunities for value creation through a comprehensive energy transition: an energy transition not only with renewable energies, but also with hydrogen, energy storage, geothermal energy and more?

When we decided to turn KEY into a stand-alone event almost three years ago, we wanted to organize a trade fair that was dedicated exclusively to energy transition and efficiency, but that could also offer a 360-degree overview. This overarching nature is the special feature that makes KEY a unique event in the European trade fair scene. There are seven product areas: photovoltaics, wind, hydrogen, energy efficiency, energy storage, e-mobility and eco-city. A clearly defined exhibition area is reserved for each of these, but they are connected to the others in order to highlight all the existing synergies that are necessary for the implementation of the energy transition.

Also see: The smarter E AWARD 2025 – Applications can now be submitted

And not only that. We don’t want to limit the vision to southern Europe, but have expanded it to the entire Mediterranean basin and also to the African continent. After all, the area has many natural resources and enormous potential for development in the field of renewable energies, even though there are still many challenges to be overcome. As KEY, we want to show the opportunity for the Mediterranean region to become the hub of this change.

How important is the planned exhibition perspective on the entire Mediterranean region?

It plays a key role. During the three-day trade fair, we will raise the market’s awareness and create all the necessary conditions for the global energy transition community to meet in Rimini. Participants will be able to take advantage of business and networking opportunities and listen to the most important industry experts who take part in our events. We present unpublished research and studies. Institutions also take part in the conferences to stimulate debate and help identify the quickest solutions to the problems that still stand in the way of the energy transition. In a sub-conference, which is organized every year by the Res4Africa Foundation and has now become a tradition, we also turn our attention to Africa.

What will be new at Key 25 in March?

For one thing, the layout has been completely redesigned so that KEY can respond to its future growth needs without too much effort. The exhibition will therefore cover an area of over 90,000 square meters, with a total of 20 halls and three open entrances to the south, east and west.

In addition to the traditional exhibition areas, we will also be providing special and cross-divisional spaces as well as new thematic focal points – for example, “Su.port – Sustainable Ports for Energy Transition”, which is dedicated to the electrification of port quays, the promotion of sustainability in ports and the acceleration of the development of offshore wind energy, in particular for floating solutions. In addition, we have expanded the hydrogen section with a new exhibition organized by Italian Exhibition Group together with Hannover Fairs International, the Italian branch of Deutsche Messe AG. We call this hydrogen show Hype, or in its long form Hydrogen Power Expo supported by Hydrogen & Fuel Cells.

Also see: Start-ups set the agenda at the smarter E Europe 2025

We will strengthen the Innovation District, which has always been dedicated to start-ups and the most innovative projects. This year, Green Jobs & Skill will be held for the first time in this area, an initiative that promotes discussions between companies looking for new talent, young people and students.

The program of events also includes moments of reflection and in-depth analysis of topics that we have not addressed before. These include artificial intelligence, its possible applications in the energy sector, and the opportunities, risks, ethical aspects and environmental impacts that arise from the introduction of this technology.

Also see: Acquisition of Italian inverter manufacturer Fimer completed

On the evening before the KEY, on Tuesday 4 March, we will also be organizing the KEY Choice – Unlock the Future of PPA event once again. This is a B2B event for power purchase agreements, which we are organizing in collaboration with Elemens, a Milan-based energy market analysis service provider. (Tilman Weber/hcn)
More information about the KEY in Rimini from 5 to 7 March 2025





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Solar Energy

Key challenges and opportunities for the European renewable energy market

January 17, 2025



The renewable energy landscape in Europe faced several notable challenges in 2024, highlighting the complexities of transitioning to a cleaner energy future. Here are some of the key hurdles energy producers, investors and purchasers had to face:

Underinvestment in energy storage and grid infrastructure

While renewable electricity generation has surged, investment in the supporting infrastructure has lagged behind: Energy Storage: Europe currently has around 8 GW of installed battery storage capacity, while the International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that 200 GW will be needed by 2030 to support the grid.

Also see: Expert analysis – How to approach battery energy storage systems in Europe

Grid modernization: More than 150 critical grid reinforcement projects, requiring €180 billion in investment, have been identified to handle the demands of a renewables-heavy energy system. Without these investments, the clean energy transition risks bottlenecks in system reliability.

Resource shortage: In many countries, the large upgrade requirements cause a shortage of engineering and skilled labour resource, which means that even where the investments are being made, significant bottlenecks in the execution and delivery of the modernization programmes might cause multi-year delays. This also applies to some extent to component supply.

Geopolitical and global market dynamics

Energy security risks: Continued geopolitical tensions, including conflicts in the Middle East and Russia-Ukraine, underscore vulnerabilities in energy security.

Government support and limited project availability: Generous government incentives in markets such as the UK, Italy, and France have made renewable projects increasingly competitive. In the UK we saw record-breaking auctions for Contract-for-Difference (CfD) support awarded 9.6 GW, but this has strained the pipeline for private buyers, potentially increasing PPA prices. In Italy oversubscription in agrivoltaics auctions (700 MW over capacity) signals strong demand but also heightened competition for project access.

As a result, buyers and developers are navigating a landscape of reduced project availability, rising PPA prices, and fierce competition against public auctions.

Looking ahead: opportunities and growth potential for 2025

Addressing these challenges requires greater investment in energy storage and grid infrastructure, along with proactive strategies to mitigate pricing and geopolitical risks. But there are also already growth opportunities visible both from a structural and a geographical perspective. These include:

Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (PPA)

We see a consolidation in Corporate PPA (Physical and Virtual) as most of them are increasingly prioritizing renewable energy sourcing to meet sustainability goals. Also, Hybrid PPAs (solar + BESS or solar + wind) have emerged this year and it is expected to further increase in 2025, offering enhanced grid reliability and optimized revenue streams, reducing shaping cost. Across key markets in Europe, a significant pipeline of hybrid assets is ready to take if contractual arrangements can make the financial model bankable.

Also see: Expert analysis – The three strongest solar energy trends in 2025

Corporate buyers, particularly in the tech and manufacturing sectors, are showing the greatest interest in renewable energy. These industries are driven by decarbonization commitments and cost predictability through long-term PPAs. Additionally, utilities and grid operators are investing in energy storage to enhance grid stability and integrate intermittent renewable sources effectively.

Multi-buyer, cross border and hydrogen PPA

Multi-buyer PPAs will also grow in 2025 as sellers are trying to standardize and simplify the contract structure. This structure entails an efficient way to mitigate the purchasers’ credit risk in a PPA. Typically, there is has the financial strength and credit rating to balance out non-investment grade corporates.

Cross-border PPAs are also expected to grow in the next year. This structure is mainly driven by Guarantees of Origin considerations and the search for a competitive PPA price.

Co-location projects

Co-location projects e.g. combining solar plants and storage becoming crucial as they enable better utilization of grid connections, reduced costs, and optimized energy dispatch. Solar plants with integrated storage can mitigate intermittency issues, participate in ancillary services, and maximize revenue through peak shaving and arbitrage opportunities. Econergy’s response to these developments is a drive to expand our co-location developments, aiming to add BESS to existing solar developments where possible.

Geographical growth markets in Europe

As Econergy experiences continued growth in demand across Europe, we anticipate robust expansion in Italy, Romania, and Poland in 2025. 

In Italy the updated PNIEC targets and the FER-X mechanism provide solid incentives for renewable energy projects. However, competitive and accessible frameworks for energy storage are critical to enhancing grid reliability and supporting Italy’s ambitious energy transition goals.

Also see: SolarPower Europe report – EU solar market with only weak growth

Romania has a significant pipeline of solar and storage projects, positioning it as a key growth region, bolstered by favorable policy measures and market demand. In Poland the ongoing transition from coal is driving the need for clean energy solutions, with opportunities for both solar and storage projects to gain momentum.

The UK will remain a key market for storage and PPAs due to a mature PPA ecosystem and robust opportunities in the energy storage market.

Specific trends and hurdles in project financing and asset management

A shift towards long-term, flexible financing mechanisms is becoming increasingly prominent, with asset management adopting digitalization and AI-driven tools for performance monitoring and predictive maintenance. These advancements are improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.

Also see: Romania – Econenergy secures financing for large-scale solar projects

Project financing trends differ by market, country, and revenue type (e.g., PPA, CfD). A significant trend is the reduced availability of funding for merchant solar PV projects in Europe, often coupled with lower leverage due to declining electricity price forecasts. However, this challenge is partially offset by the current reduction of key interest rates, which eases financial pressures.

Additional information about Econergy can be found here 

Key hurdles include regulatory uncertainty, lengthy permitting processes, and grid connection bottlenecks. For technology providers, scaling production to meet rising demand and innovating cost-effective solutions are ongoing challenges. Addressing these hurdles requires:

– Policymakers to streamline permitting processes and establish clear, stable regulations.

– Grid operators to invest in infrastructure upgrades and enhance grid connection processes.

– Technology providers to focus on scalable, efficient solutions and collaborate with planners to tailor innovations to market needs.

These trends highlight the need for adaptable financing strategies tailored to specific market conditions. Technology integration and sustainable practices must be emphasized to drive project success and maintain construction surge. (Wolf Dietrich/hcn)





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