by Catie Owen | Dec 2, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
R.Power, a European independent renewable energy producer, has begun construction on its Klotze Solar Park in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
This project signifies the company’s first utility-scale photovoltaic installation in the country.
The Klotze Solar Park, which has an installed capacity of 20MW, was awarded a 20-year support contract through the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) auction system.
This installation is a key development in R.Power’s strategy for expansion into Western Europe and supplements the company’s existing German portfolio, which includes over 115MW of solar capacity recently secured in the German Innovation Auction organised by Bundesnetzagentur.
Speaking on the development, Przemek Pięta, CEO and Co-Founder of R.Power, said: Germany is a strategically vital market for R.Power, and the start of construction at Klotze Solar Park is a milestone for our company.”
He added that the project “follows our recent success in the German Innovation Auction, where we secured 115.5MW of capacity for new PV projects integrating innovative elements such as storage and hybrid configurations.”
Pięta concluded that, “Together, these achievements demonstrate our strong development capabilities and our long-term commitment to the German market.”
Once operational, the Klotze installation will provide clean electricity to thousands of households, thereby supporting Germany’s decarbonisation objectives and contributing to the national renewable energy mix.
The project aligns with R.Power’s approach of combining photovoltaic and battery energy storage assets to increase system flexibility and value creation, reinforcing its capacity to execute projects across various European markets.
[Image credit: R.Power]
by Catie Owen | Dec 1, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
Q ENERGY officially inaugurated the 8.5MW Cahuzac-sur-Adour solar park in the Occitanie region of France on Friday, 28 November, alongside numerous local representatives.
The project involved converting a former quarry site in the Gers department into a renewable energy facility, marking Q ENERGY’s first park in that area.
The site, a Classified Installation for Environmental Protection (ICPE), was used for crushing and screening materials between 1993 and 2019. Its redevelopment into a solar power plant on an already artificial space supports the region’s development and the production of renewable energy.
The 14,500 solar panels across 7.5 hectares now provide renewable energy for nearly 5,000 people and avoid approximately 2,600 tonnes of CO2 annually.
The project aligns with the national plan to increase renewable energies and with Occitanie’s strategy to become an “energy-positive region” by 2050. With this addition, Q ENERGY now has 12 solar parks and 14 wind farms developed and/or built in Occitanie, supplying renewable energy to almost 400,000 people.
Maud Gaide, Solar Director at Q ENERGY, said: “This project was led in an exemplary manner by the teams at Q Energy. Collaboration with local elected officials enabled the development of a solar farm that is well integrated into its territory and whose economic benefits will enable local authorities to carry out projects and investments”.
The solar park incorporates an exemplary ecological approach alongside clean energy generation. Environmental measures include adapting fences for small wildlife movement, installing amphibian barriers, and planning hedge planting.
Soon-to-be implemented measures involve installing educational panels near the Adour hiking trail to raise public awareness of biodiversity and energy transition issues and reshaping an embankment to encourage the settlement of European bee-eaters.
Véronique Sauzay, Regional Solar Manager at Q ENERGY, noted: “The entire team working on this project was committed to developing a project that is consistent with environmental protection values.
“It is important that our green electricity production projects respect the natural characteristics of the sites on which they are located and enhance their ecological value”.
[Image caption: Solar parc Cahuzac-sur-Adour, France. Image credit: Absoludrones, Q ENERGY]
Are you involved in France’s solar market, or looking to get a foothold? Explore the benefits of attending Solar & Storage Live Paris – taking place 14-15 October 2026.
by Catie Owen | Nov 28, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
A new three-way collaboration between global renewable energy firm Zelestra, the Aragón-based nonprofit ECODES, and Microsoft has been announced, designed to boost social and environmental community investment across Aragón, Spain.
The initiative is built upon a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) under which Microsoft will purchase the clean energy generated by Zelestra’s Escatrón II and Fuendetodos II solar projects in Zaragoza, Aragón. The projects, currently under construction, will deliver a combined capacity of 95.7 MWac.
A key component of the agreement is the funding provided to ECODES to implement direct impact programmes and lead grant-making activities.
These Community Funds are specifically targeted at supporting community-led sustainability initiatives for vulnerable populations, expanding access to sustainable infrastructure and healthy environments, and advancing economic inclusion.
The partnership aligns with Zelestra’s 3 Es (Education, Energy and Environment) strategy and supports Microsoft’s carbon negative goals and Datacenter Community Pledge to create local benefits.
Scarlett Alvarez Uzcategui, Zelestra’s Chief Stakeholder and Sustainability Officer, said the partnership “aligns perfectly with our commitment to deliver meaningful, positive impact in the communities where we operate.
“We will be present in Aragón for the long-term… and we are certain that the benefits of this initiative will also have a lasting positive impact for communities nearby.”
Eoin Doherty, Vice President, EMEA Regional Leader, Cloud Operations + Innovation, at Microsoft, emphasised this local commitment: “As Microsoft grows its presence in Aragon, we are committed to advancing community prosperity, well-being, and sustainability.
“This collaboration with Zelestra and ECODES is an important part of fulfilling this commitment and ensuring that we meet our clean energy goals in a way that delivers lasting benefits to the local community.”
The project also adheres to ECODES’ mission to ensure an inclusive transition. Cecilia Foronda, Head of Action for a Just Ecological Transition at ECODES, called the collaboration a “unique opportunity to help accelerate the transition to a green, inclusive, and responsible economy in Aragon and across Spain.”
She added: “ECODES commits to listen to local stakeholders so that the benefits of this collaboration reach those who need them most, strengthening social participation and territorial balance and leaving no one behind.”
With Spain’s solar market remaining a crucial topic, don’t miss your free ticket for Solar & Storage Live España 27-28 May 2026.
by Catie Owen | Nov 27, 2025 | Europe, Innovation, Video
As the UK’s largest renewable energy exhibition, Solar & Storage Live 2025 brought together the entire energy value chain – from manufacturers and installers to investors and policymakers.
At the show, we sat down with John Behan, Co-Founder and CEO of AMPYR Distributed Energy (ADE). ADE is a rapidly expanding force in the C&I sector, dedicated to making the transition to net zero simple and cost-effective for businesses by providing fully funded, on-site solar and storage solutions.
In this interview, John discusses ADE’s mission to deliver green, reliable power and offers a crucial investor perspective on the distributed energy market.
“We’ve deployed primarily on-site solar, and the trend we’re really highlighting over this decade is the growth in co-located solar and storage behind the meter.”
What is AMPYR Distributed Energy (ADE)’s role in the sector?
John: At ADE, we’re on a mission to simplify net zero for business customers. But what does that mean? It means we deliver fully funded on-site renewables that provide green, reliable power at a lower cost exactly where it’s needed.
This allows our customers to focus on running their business while achieving their sustainability goals.
Tell us about the talk you did at Solar & Storage Live UK.
John: A lot of the talks at the show are typically around products, industry, and the market. I wanted to really focus on an investor perspective on distributed energy, so bringing a bit of a finance angle.
In the talk, we covered some background on the distributed energy market and why it’s growing so much. We had record rooftop deployment last year, and that’s going to continue, potentially reaching around a gigawatt per annum by the end of the decade.
Then I jumped into the investor perspective: why the market is gaining traction for investors like us, but also what the trends and some of the challenges are.
Why is sponsoring the C&I Theatre important for ADE?
John: When we sponsored the theatre last year, we were relative newcomers to the market; we were less than a year old. For us, that was about trying to get our initial foothold in the market.
Since that time, despite being a relative newcomer, we’ve expanded from 14 to 40 employees through acquisition, we’ve trebled our assets under management, and we’ve also expanded into Europe, into Germany.
In the last 12 months, we’ve had really solid growth, and we’re now positioning ourselves as one of the leaders in the C&I market.
What trends in the industry should solar stakeholders be aware of?
John: To date, we’ve deployed primarily on-site solar, and the trend we’re really highlighting over this decade is the growth in co-located solar and storage behind the meter.
Now, the investor side is still trying to get the business model right. Principally, we want to supply more on-site power to the customer via the battery, but ultimately, that doesn’t really utilise the battery in the right way.
You’ve got to really create a floor via contracted returns and then optimise the battery as it should, to capture all the additional revenue streams that are out there. You can typically share those revenue streams with a customer.
To summarise, what you really need is a combination of both: we need contracted returns from the battery, but we also need the upside to be able to unlock material deployment in the market.
That’s really our key trend, and going forward, we have an ambition to put storage alongside every solar asset that we install.
What is the importance of attending Solar & Storage Live UK for ADE?
John: I said the same last year: I think it is the biggest in the UK, certainly probably one of the biggest renewable conferences in Europe, and it is bigger again this year.
For us, Solar & Storage Live UK is really important as brand awareness is key for us. Lots of our partners and customers are here, and potential customers. It’s a chance for us to meet new and existing partners as well, and, as I’ve said previously, this is the best way to network.
At the show, you have short, sharp meetings back-to-back, and everyone’s in the same place. That’s why it’s so beneficial. Of course, attendees also have dinners on, we have socials; the whole team is here to have a bit of fun as well.
Missed out on Solar & Storage Live UK? Get your free ticket to Solar & Storage Live London – the capital’s most exciting solar event. Or, find a Solar & Storage Live event near you.
by Catie Owen | Nov 26, 2025 | Asia, Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
ACCIONA Energía, a Spanish renewable energy developer, has been awarded a 20-year power supply agreement for the entire output of two new renewable energy projects in the Philippines.
The contracts were secured through Round 4 of the Department of Energy’s Green Energy Auction Program (GEAP).
The award covers the 101MW Kalayaan 2 wind farm in Laguna, which is currently under construction, and the 180MWp Daanbantayan solar plant in Cebu, for which construction is slated to begin before the end of 2025.
The power supply contract is expected to provide long-term certainty for the energy generated by these facilities, contributing to the Philippines’ renewable energy objectives while supplying clean and reliable power to consumers.
ACCIONA Energía stated that the agreement “supports the Philippines in reaching its renewable energy targets while delivering clean, reliable power to consumers.”
In addition to these two projects, the company is developing a pipeline of more than 2GW in the Philippines.
The firm recently restructured its Southeast Asian partnerships to strengthen its position in key markets like the Philippines and Thailand, where it holds significant portfolios and intends to continue expanding in the coming years.
ACCIONA has maintained a substantial presence in the Philippines since 2016 through its water and infrastructure divisions, completing notable projects such as the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway (CCLEX) and the Putatan II and Laguna Lake water treatment plants.
Furthermore, ACCIONA’s foundation, acciona.org, has been working to support underserved rural communities in the country since 2021.
Through collaborations with the Ayala Foundation and the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation and Development, the foundation has brought electricity services to areas that previously lacked access.
These efforts have so far reached around 3,500 households, small businesses, and community centres.
With Spain’s solar market remaining a crucial topic, don’t miss your free ticket for Solar & Storage Live España 27-28 May 2026.
by Catie Owen | Nov 26, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
TCL SunPower Global, a prominent provider of solar technologies, has entered a strategic distribution partnership with Failte Solar, a well-established distributor across Ireland and the UK.
The agreement is set to significantly boost TCL SunPower’s market presence in both the residential and Commercial and Industrial (C&I) segments.
Under the new terms, Failte Solar will become the exclusive distributor of TCL Solar-branded modules in Ireland and across the UK. Furthermore, Failte Solar will be the exclusive Irish partner for SunPower-branded modules.
The deal establishes a robust distribution channel, marking the launch of the TCL Solar brand in Ireland and strengthening its presence in the UK, while re-establishing a strong presence for the SunPower brand in Ireland. Steven Zhang, GM at TCL SunPower Global, noted the importance of the new collaborator.
“Failte Solar is a key partner in our regional expansion,” he stated. “Their deep installer network, strong local relationships and market insight, and operational expertise give us the reach and agility to accelerate our growth across Ireland and the UK with the TCL Solar product line.”
Zhang added that Failte Solar will operate as their “local exclusive Irish partner and bring SunPower solutions to Irish customers.”
Mark Shinners, CEO at Failte Solar, expressed confidence in the venture. “We’re proud to partner with TCL SunPower Global to bring their innovative solar technologies to installers and customers across Ireland and the UK,” he said.
Shinners highlighted the company’s capability, stating that as “the largest Solar equipment solutions distributor in Ireland together with a rapidly growing presence in the UK market, Failte Solar is well equipped to deliver fast, reliable access to high-performance solar solutions through our strong installer network with over 250,000 square feet of warehousing capacity.”
He concluded that the partnership “strengthens our offering and positions us to meet growing demand with speed, scale, and service excellence.”
The collaboration underscores both companies’ commitment to accelerating Europe’s clean energy transition by increasing access to high-performance solar solutions.
by Catie Owen | Nov 25, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
Technique Solaire Group has announced the signing of an agreement with Iberdrola to acquire 100% of the shares of Iberdrola Renouvelables, S.A.S., its French onshore renewable subsidiary.
The strategic transaction marks a major milestone for the Group, though completion remains subject to customary conditions precedent, including regulatory approvals and consultation with employee representative bodies.
Iberdrola Renouvelables, S.A.S. holds a portfolio comprising 118MW of operational wind assets, alongside a substantial pipeline of 639MW of onshore wind and solar PV projects currently under development in France.
This transaction represents Technique Solaire Group’s first investment in onshore wind. The strategic diversification will broaden the Group’s expertise and strengthen the resilience of its project portfolio against future changes in energy market regulations and renewable support policies.
The combination of wind, solar, and battery energy storage systems (BESS) is also set to enable the Group to offer customers green electricity tailored to their needs.
Thomas de Moussac, Co-founder and Managing Director, Development, explained: “Entering the wind sector is a strategic milestone for Technique Solaire.
“Following our successes in solar and biogas, this transaction – which gives us immediate access to 118MW in operation and a substantial project pipeline – opens a new chapter in our development.”
Lionel Themine, Co-founder and Managing Director, Finance, added that the acquisition “reflects our strategy to diversify our growth engines.”
“It is also fully in line with our capital discipline and our long-term financial trajectory. It will strengthen our model based on regulated or contracted assets.”
Finally, outlining the operational priorities post-completion, Julien Fleury, Co-founder and Managing Director, Operations, said: “After completion, our priorities will go to safety, operational continuity, asset performance, and the smooth integration of highly experienced teams we will be delighted to welcome.
“We will place industrial excellence and local engagement with our stakeholders at the heart of this transition.”
by Catie Owen | Nov 25, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
AMPYR Distributed Energy (ADE), part of the AGP Group, has announced the acquisition of Shawton Energy (Shawton), a specialist provider of fully-funded solar energy solutions to UK businesses.
The deal is set to reinforce ADE’s standing in the UK distributed energy market by incorporating Shawton’s experience and commercial relationships, expanding both its customer base and operational capacity.
Since its launch in early 2024, ADE has rapidly grown in the UK’s onsite renewables sector and recently expanded into Germany. The company now manages a portfolio of over 100MW of contracted capacity across more than 150 sites.
Shawton, founded in 2019, will maintain its focus on delivering onsite renewable installations to provide cheaper, greener energy to businesses. The firm will retain its established brand, team, and Warrington offices.
ADE is slated to collaborate closely, supplying competitive Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) funding and strategic support for Shawton’s customer pipeline.
Commenting on the move, John Behan, CEO of ADE, stated: “This acquisition is the latest in a number of strategic moves that cement ADE’s position as a leader in the European C&I solar market. With ambitious growth targets, we are actively expanding our capabilities and assets under management.
Our goal is to lead the sector by making onsite energy simple for our customers and partners.” Behan added, “We have been impressed with the growth trajectory of Shawton under the leadership of Jamie Shaw. Shawton has built a strong market reputation and solid operating base of assets, alongside a material pipeline with leading corporates.
“We look forward to working closely with Jamie and his team to accelerate the deployment of onsite renewables across the UK.”
Shawton’s previous investment from Lazard Asset Management in 2023 facilitated the completion of multiple long-term rooftop PPA projects and the development of the Point Lane 8.6 MWp solar farm.
Jamie Shaw, founder and CEO of Shawton, noted the significance of the acquisition, saying: “Our partnership with ADE marks an exciting new chapter for our business. By joining forces, we have access to the capital and resources that will further support our growth in a consolidating market and competitive environment.”
Rob Wall, head of private infrastructure at Lazard Asset Management, concluded that the transaction “positions Shawton for its next phase of growth.”
[Image caption: Shawton Energy Point Lane solar farm. Image credit: AMPYR]
by Catie Owen | Nov 21, 2025 | Europe, Everything Installer, Innovation
The 2025 edition of Solar & Storage Live UK brought together a gathering of solar professionals and experts, ranging from scientists to industry titans.
One such titan in attendance was Jonathan Bates, Managing Director of Photon Energy, renowned for his distinguished career in the renewable energy sector.
However, as the UK Ambassador for the RePower Ukraine Foundation, Jonathan is also dedicating his expertise to a humanitarian mission.
In this interview, he discusses the vital role of solar and storage in protecting essential services in Ukraine and outlines the huge task ahead.
“I want them to think that [our mission] is something they can help with, because it’s really very easy: cash, kit, time.”
Our last conversation with RePower Ukraine was at Solar & Storage Live UK 2024. Can you talk to us about the impact of your hospital project?
Jonathan: We’ve successfully implemented my first project, or the first project that I’ve been involved in, which was for a hospital in a community in eastern Ukraine, in a small town called Slobozhanske.
It’s a 36KW PV system with 36KWh of battery storage and 30KW worth of inverters on a small local hospital that treats about 50,000 patients a year.
The system was donated by various companies within the UK solar industry. My company, Photon Energy, donated the solar panels. CGEN donated the inverter and the battery storage unit. Then, between us and Midsummer, we raised a further £15,000 in cash to fund the installation, the shipping, the mounting system, the scaffolding, cabling, and all the rest of the balance of system.
It was finally shipped from the UK to Ukraine in May this year, installed in the end of June/beginning of July, and they had a formal opening of the system just a couple of weeks ago in Ukraine.
I travelled out to the opening and attended in person. I was given a tour of the system, which is fully operational and very neatly and well-installed, which was a plus.
It was fantastic to speak with the medical staff at the hospital, who explained the real benefits and impacts that the system is having. It means that they can still provide emergency power when there’s a power cut.
They can rely on the solar and batteries to provide power to X-ray, maternity, and all those sorts of units where you absolutely don’t want power to stop.
It was just really inspiring to see these communities living under horrendous conditions – they’re 50km from the front line – and just seeing that life goes on as normal.
The community is having to get by and exist in difficult circumstances, and it’s really quite inspiring, I guess, to see them doing that.
What has been the impact of RePower’s other projects in Ukraine this year?
Jonathan: The hospital project is the second project that’s been organised by RePower in Slobozhanske.
The other project was a water pumping system, helping to pump water around the town, because the power infrastructure had been very badly damaged. There have been two projects completed in Slobozhanske. We are now working to fund and organise another two projects in eastern Ukraine.
I’ve actually got a list of over 100 hospitals that are looking for this kind of support, because hospitals have been deliberately targeted by the Russians in Ukraine.
There’s a huge amount of work to be done today to just ensure they can continue to deliver basic services, but also in the future when the country’s going to have to be rebuilt. There’s going to be a massive reconstruction effort taking place, and it’s a massive task.
What logistical challenges has RePower Ukraine faced over the last year?
Jonathan: Staffing is a problem. A lot of people are fighting at the front, and so having people to do the installation is a challenge.
One of the other things RePower does is run training programmes for veterans and for internally displaced people so that they can train or retrain to become solar designers and solar installers.
It’s a recognised problem, and the charity is trying to do something about it. To date, they’ve run three training courses. The last one was funded by Mercy Corps from the US. It’s a challenge; the staffing of the organisation is a challenge. People are trying to live and work in essentially wartime conditions.
When I was there, alarms were going off in the middle of the night. You’re woken up and you have to decide whether you are going to the bomb shelter or not.
People with children are having a difficult life because the children are suffering from anxiety, and are scared when they see birds or drones overhead. RePower are doing what it can under very difficult circumstances.
One of the key issues they face is funding. Not just funding for the individual projects, but the core funding for the organisation, so that they can keep hold of their staff who are dedicated, very capable, committed, highly skilled people. But keeping them is a problem.
Did visiting RePower Ukraine’s projects in person make a personal impact on you?
Jonathan: It’s made me more committed completely! It’s a fantastic country, and a very, very friendly country. The people there are defending us all. You see the sacrifices the people are making.
If you go to the Maidan, the main square in Kyiv, and see the flags and the memorials. they are very moving. You realise that they’re not just defending Ukraine, they’re defending Western Europe and they’re defending us all.
In my opinion, we have to give something back. We must support them in every way we can. Having been there, I’m twice as committed as I was.
In a year’s time at Solar & Storage Live UK 2026, what successes do you hope to share with us?
Jonathan: As I said, Greenpeace have given me a list of 100 hospitals. Whether we can get all of those done, I don’t know. But I’d certainly like another 10 done by this time next year.
It’s not just me; there’s a whole team of people who are committed to this, who are working towards meeting the charity’s objectives.
There’s a team of us in the UK. We get a lot of support from Solar Energy UK, which is opening doors to its membership. They’re opening doors to other organisations that we can then try and convince to support the charity and to make a real difference and have a real impact today.
Overall, when you speak to people about RePower Ukraine at this year’s show, what message do you want them to take away?
Jonathan: I want them to think that [our mission] is something they can help with, because it’s really very easy: cash, kit, time.
If people have experience in fundraising or have something they can do to help, then the more of us the merrier.
There are a lot of companies out there that want to help, and the onus is on me and the rest of us who are helping RePower to turn their desire to help into concrete actions, real systems, and implementation.
To find out more about RePower Ukraine or to donate, follow the link here.
Missed out on Solar & Storage Live UK? Get your free ticket to Solar & Storage Live London – the capital’s most exciting solar event. Or, find a Solar & Storage Live event near you.
by Catie Owen | Nov 20, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
European Independent Power Producer (IPP) Econergy Renewable Energy Ltd. has successfully connected its 52MW Resko solar project in Poland to the national electricity grid.
The facility is expected to reach full commercial operation within the next 30 days.
The project is owned by a partnership in which Econergy UK, a subsidiary 75.24% owned by Econergy Renewable Energy Ltd., holds a 51% stake, with The Phoenix Insurance Company Ltd. holding the remaining 49%.
The long-term commercial operations are underpinned by a Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (vPPA) signed with Apple Inc. Under this agreement, the technology firm will purchase approximately 75% of the project’s electricity output at a fixed price for 19 years from the start of commercial operation.
The remaining 25% of energy generation will be sold on the wholesale market at prevailing prices.
Commenting on the milestone, Eyal Podhorzer, Co-Founder and CEO of Econergy Renewable Energy, said: “The long-term vPPA with Apple, a global leader in technology and innovation, is a testament to the quality of our assets and the strength of our commercial strategy.”
In a further strategic development, Econergy UK confirmed it has received a Distribution System Operator (DSO) licence from Poland’s Energy Regulatory Office (URE). This licence grants the company greater flexibility in developing and connecting future projects across Poland by enabling the utilisation of the Resko site’s network and infrastructure.
Podhorzer concluded that the new licence “further enhances our ability to expand and operate efficiently across Poland, and we remain committed to executing our growth plans with the same momentum into 2026 and beyond.”
[Image caption: The Resko solar project. Image credit: Econergy]
by Catie Owen | Nov 19, 2025 | Europe, Oceania, Storage
Recurrent Energy, a global solar and battery storage developer and a subsidiary of Canadian Solar, has announced the sale of its Australian hybrid solar and battery project to an undisclosed European infrastructure and investment group.
The Gunning Energy Park, located in New South Wales, Australia, combines a 275MWdc solar farm with a 120MW battery energy storage system (BESS).
The project is slated to connect to the National Electricity Market via a Transgrid transmission line and is expected to generate enough clean electricity to power more than 76,000 homes.
The sale is another achievement for Recurrent Energy in the Australian market, following a recent series of milestones.
These include reaching financial close on the Carwarp Energy Park, a 171 MW solar farm in north-west Victoria, and the development and sale of the Mannum BESS project in South Australia, a 100 MW / 200 MWh battery energy storage system.
Ismael Guerrero, CEO of Recurrent Energy, commented: “This milestone builds on our continued success in the country, highlights our ability to develop innovative, large-scale renewable energy projects, and marks an important step in advancing Australia’s transition to a cleaner and more reliable energy system.”
by Catie Owen | Nov 19, 2025 | Europe, Everything Installer, Innovation, Storage, Video
Early autumn saw the return of Solar & Storage Live UK: the nation’s largest platform for solar installers and manufacturers to meet, network, and discover new innovations.
At the show, Solar&StorageXtra caught up with Craig Bilboe, Country Manager UK & Ireland for EcoFlow.
With his extensive background in energy technology and business development, Craig offers a sharp perspective on navigating market regulations and installer needs.
“As we move into the winter period, we’re now really looking at concerns around grid stability and power outages. Our Gateway will really address some of those concerns, as well as the rising cost of energy.”
Since we last caught up with EcoFlow at Solar & Storage Live London, what has been new for the company?
Craig: Lots of things have happened. So, we have new products to release here at the show. We have the Gateway, which is really important and is being asked for by our installation partners. They’re craving our Gateway, so that’s really good.
And we have some, the new PowerInsight and our AI functionality, which is something unique to the industry. And I think actually, there’s a whole host of benefits to incorporating AI.
Now, we have to be very careful in delivering this message to consumers because everything has AI. But EcoFlow are the only company in this arena that I know of, in our industry, that is offering a specific AI to the energy storage market.
This will have huge benefits to not only the existing consumers, but also people who may never have had access to dynamic tariffs or have been able to capitalise on savings.
This product is probably the most exciting for me as an individual, because there’s a huge opportunity for energy saving for end users that may be in a social housing sector or may have some physical challenges, or might find it very difficult to access traditional dynamic tariffs. We have a product here that could potentially change the industry.
So, as usual, EcoFlow attends Solar & Storage Live UK to present and bring new products to the market.
What drove EcoFlow to open a UK office, and why choose Birmingham as the location?
Craig: We opened our UK HQ in Birmingham this Autumn. Opening an office here is important for our installation partners because we need to demonstrate as a manufacturer that we’re investing not only in the local community but also tin he region and the country as a whole.
Our installers really want to be able to have a location where they can come and get trained. They’ll have the comfort that we’re here for the long period, and that we’re here to support them, not just for now, but for the coming years too.
Overall, we think it’s vitally important that we have a location where everyone can come and learn more about EcoFlow.
What opportunities or challenges are you targeting in the UK residential and commercial solar-storage sectors?
Craig: There are lots of challenges and opportunities we’re looking to tackle. But, to that end, our Gateway is something where end users are really starting to look at.
As we move into the winter period, we’re now really looking at concerns around grid stability and power outages. Our Gateway will really address some of those concerns, as well as the rising cost of energy.
Over time, I think we’ll see an increased demand for our batteries, but also our different solutions, such as off-grid scenarios and all the other functionalities.
What’s your long-term vision for EcoFlow in the UK and Europe?
Craig: We’ve had a presence in the UK for over three years; we wouldn’t have invested in our new office unless we wanted to be here for the long term.
We want to continue to bring new products, new innovations into the European market and beyond, support our installers, and maintain our large presence in the home energy sector.
Really, we want to be able to provide good products for our installers, which add benefits to the end users and continue to play a part in our industry.
Why is EcoFlow a repeat exhibitor of Solar & Storage Live?
Craig: Solar & Storage Live UK is probably our most important vehicle to access new installers.
We’ve put all our focus on this event to demonstrate – or at least showcase – our new products. We want to demonstrate our functions and all the great things about EcoFlow.
This [show] is probably the best vehicle now that we can see to reach all new installers, touch base with our existing installers, and network within the industry as well.
I would say that this is probably the most important thing that we do every single year to generate new business.
Catch more of Craig’s insights in the Solar&StorageXtra podcast, where Craig discusses how AI-driven energy management can transform the storage sector.
Missed out on Solar & Storage Live UK? Get your free ticket to Solar & Storage Live London – the capital’s most exciting solar event. Or, find a Solar & Storage Live event near you.
by Catie Owen | Nov 18, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe, Everything Installer
French company HoloSolis has successfully raised over €220m in financing to support the construction of a new solar panel factory, which the firm states will be one of the largest in Europe.
The development comes as solar energy remains a central pillar of European strategy to boost environmentally friendly power sources and reduce reliance on external energy supplies.
The HoloSolis project, located in Sarreguemines-Hambach, is slated to become fully operational by 2030. It aims to achieve an annual production capacity of 5GW, which is projected to generate enough power for one million homes.
Furthermore, the initiative is expected to create 2,000 direct jobs.
The recent financing round involved several key companies, including Cales Technologie, InnoEnergy, TSE, Groupe IDEC, Armor Group, and Heraeus.
InnoEnergy France CEO Karine Vernier stated, “HoloSolis embodies the ambition we have had since day one: a strong and sovereign European solar industry.”
The financial commitment is a major step toward establishing the large-scale production necessary to meet the region’s ambitious clean energy targets.
Are you involved in France’s solar market, or looking to get a foothold? Explore the benefits of attending Solar & Storage Live Paris – taking place 14-15 October 2026.
by Catie Owen | Nov 18, 2025 | Europe, Large Scale Utility Solar
Over 250 schools across England have signed agreements to receive funding for new solar panels and energy efficiency measures as part of an expanded scheme by Great British Energy and the government.
The initiative, which also targets NHS and military sites, will see schools benefit from a share of up to £100m in funding. The goal is to help schools cut energy bills and reinvest the savings into teaching and resources.
Twenty-three schools have already installed Great British Energy solar panels, including Notre Dame RC School in Plymouth and Christ The King RC Primary School in Manchester.
“Great British Energy is helping schools to save money on bills, meaning more money for textbooks and technology,” Energy Minister Michael Shanks commented.
Across the country, solar panels are going up on rooftops to power classrooms with clean, homegrown power. This is our clean energy superpower mission in action, protecting our public services with lower bills and energy security.”
Education Minister Josh MacAlister echoed this sentiment, stating: “Solar panels are slashing schools’ energy bills by thousands of pounds year after year, with the money going straight back into the textbooks and resources pupils need to succeed.”
Rocketing energy bills have put a strain on school budgets, and by allowing schools to generate their own electricity, it is estimated they will save millions, exceeding installation costs.
Great British Energy’s CEO, Dan McGrail, said: “Great British Energy’s ongoing solar rollout delivers tangible benefits to the people that need it most in our hospitals and schools.
“This not only provides clean energy to communities, it also ensures that the public own and benefit from these projects through energy security, good jobs and above all, real tangible local outcomes such as more funds to support teaching and health.”
The scheme prioritises schools and colleges in areas of deprivation across the North East, West Midlands, and North West, ensuring at least 10 schools in each region of England benefit.
Don’t miss out on your free ticket to Solar & Storage Live London 2026– the capital’s most exciting solar event. Or, find a Solar & Storage Live event near you.
by Catie Owen | Nov 17, 2025 | Europe, Innovation, Large Scale Utility Solar
Velto Renewables has completed the acquisition of Les Îlots Blandin, Europe’s largest floating solar power plant, from Q ENERGY.
The facility is in Perthes, Haute-Marne, France.
Having previously held a 50% stake in the project, Velto Renewables now becomes the sole owner of the plant. The 74.3MWp facility spans over 127 hectares and includes more than 135,000 photovoltaic panels installed on advanced floating structures.
The company stated that the plant is expected to “generate renewable electricity equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 37,000 people, while avoiding over 18,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year.”
Velto Renewables highlighted the project’s success in converting unused industrial areas, noting that Les Îlots Blandin “illustrates the potential of floating solar technology to convert unused industrial areas into productive renewable assets.”
“By combining innovation, environmental restoration, and regional collaboration, the project strengthens France’s energy transition while supporting sustainable land use,” the company’s statement continued.
Following the acquisition, Velto Renewables will manage the plant’s long-term operation. The company indicated this milestone “marks another step in the company’s expansion in France and reaffirms its commitment to delivering renewable energy solutions that create enduring value for both local communities and the environment.”
Les Îlots Blandin is part of a larger portfolio transfer from Q ENERGY to Velto, following a long-term partnership agreed upon by the two companies last spring, which “already provides a framework for further project sales.”
by Catie Owen | Nov 17, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe, Innovation
A £1m solar energy scheme has been completed at the Cowdenbeath liquid waste facility in Fife, Scotland, which is linked to the Levenmouth Waste Water Treatment Works.
The project involved the installation of over 1,700 ground-mounted solar panels at the site, which manages commercial liquid waste before transfer for treatment and disposal.
The new array is projected to generate 0.53 of green electricity annually. Of this, 60% will be used on-site, fulfilling 29% of the facility’s total energy requirements and helping to reduce operating costs.
The remaining 40% will be exported to the national grid. The system is also expected to reduce carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by approximately 109 tonnes per year, contributing to Scottish Water’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
The initiative is directly linked to reducing the carbon footprint associated with handling commercial waste at the site. Murdo MacAulay, project manager at Scottish Water Horizons, explained the dual focus:
“This site handles large volumes of liquid waste which we store and release safely to ensure full environmental compliance. It is great to see this solar scheme in operation at the site now, generating green energy and reducing the carbon associated with managing commercial and run-off waste.
“Another important driver for these projects is reducing Scottish Water’s operating costs.”
The solar system, expected to deliver cost savings for over 30 years, is designed to “provide resilience against the volatility of grid electricity prices,” as noted in the project information.
MacAulay added that the company will “continue to deliver solar schemes at Scottish Water sites across the country as we focus on achieving our net zero target by 2040, which we are currently on track to achieve.”
Enhancing biodiversity on-site
Beyond energy generation, the project incorporates significant environmental measures. Derek Ross, operator at the facility, highlighted the operational and ecological benefits:
“This scheme will allow 60% of the energy generated by the solar scheme to be used on site. In addition to the solar scheme, several biodiversity measures will be implemented on-site, including tree planting, log piles, seeding of wildflower meadows, and new hedging to enhance habitats and support local wildlife.
“Offsetting our carbon footprint is not just about using renewable energy technology but also about giving back to and protecting the natural environment at our sites.”
Renewables specialists Absolute Solar and Wind delivered the project.
[Image caption: Aerial view of new solar array at Cowdenbeath Liquid Waste Reception Facility. Image credit: Scottish Water Horizons]
by Catie Owen | Nov 17, 2025 | Commercial & Industrial Solar, Europe
RIC Energy has commenced construction on its first solar power plants in Spain. The projects, named Bluesol 1 and Bluesol 2, are located in Almodóvar del Campo, within the Ciudad Real province.
This development is described by the company as a “historic day,” marking a significant step in its strategic evolution toward becoming an Independent Power Producer (IPP). For more than two decades, RIC Energy has promoted renewable energy development across four continents, with a portfolio exceeding 12,000 MW.
The Bluesol I and II facilities are expected to add over 60 MW of installed capacity to the national grid. This output is projected to be sufficient to supply approximately 150,000 homes annually and avoid the emission of 40,000 tonnes of CO2 contributing to a cleaner and more resilient electricity system.
The move reinforces the company’s commitment to a more sustainable and stable energy model with a positive local impact.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, José Luis Moya, RIC Energy’s Global CEO, emphasised the significance of the undertaking: “The construction of these photovoltaic plants is a milestone for RIC Energy in its transformation to an IPP. After more than 20 years developing projects for third parties, it was time to take the next step.”
The construction phase of the projects is anticipated to generate between 60 and 200 jobs during peak activity. The work will be carried out by GES – Global Energy Services.
RIC Energy concluded its announcement by congratulating the various teams involved in achieving this corporate milestone.
[Image credit: RIC Energy]
Solar & Storage Live España will be taking place 27-28 May 2026 in Valencia. Don’t miss out on your free ticket by securing your place here.
by Catie Owen | Nov 14, 2025 | Americas, Europe, Everything Installer
Press Release
Stäubli and Create Energy announce strategic partnership to revolutionise PV connector technology for the renewable energy industry.
The Swiss-based Stäubli Electrical Connectors, market-leading in connecting PV DC systems, and Create Energy, a US-based leading innovator in renewable energy solutions, are proud to announce a strategic manufacturing partnership.
Together, the companies will produce a next-generation PV DC connector designed to transform the solar and renewable energy industry and address long-standing challenges in the tracker market. This will set a new benchmark for safety, reliability, and performance.
The collaboration combines Stäubli’s legacy of excellence in electrical connectivity with Create Energy’s agile innovation and advanced manufacturing capabilities.
“We’re excited to collaborate with Create Energy to bring this innovation to life and contribute to increasing safety and performance in the PV tracker systems. Together, we’re setting a new benchmark for PV connectivity in the renewables space, and we are excited about this future collaboration!” says Matthias Mack, Vice-President Renewable Energy at Stäubli.
The new connector is specifically designed to withstand the dynamic mechanical stresses and environmental conditions unique to solar tracking systems.
By leveraging Stäubli’s high-quality materials, electrical design expertise, and Create Energy’s precision engineering, the new product promises to enhance system longevity, reduce maintenance costs, and improve overall energy yield.
“The misuse of PV connectors in the tracker market has been a persistent issue, compromising system integrity and long-term performance. I have had a close association with the North American Staubli unit for over two decades. This partnership with Stäubli allows us to deliver a purpose-built solution that not only solves this problem but also pushes the industry forward.” says Dean Solon, Founder and CEO at Create Energy.
The new connector solution will be introduced to the market in 2026, with distribution across North America and international markets.
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by Catie Owen | Nov 14, 2025 | Europe, Innovation, Video
This year’s Solar & Storage Live UK was a key meeting point for the energy value chain – including solar innovators and trade bodies.
While there, Solar&StorageXtra spoke with Jason Howlett, Founder and CEO of the newly established Energy Storage Association (ESA).
Howlett revealed the motivation and process behind launching the organisation, its goal of becoming the dedicated voice for the storage sector, and how to tackle significant regulatory gaps.
“We are seeing real encouragement with the policy… but the deep frustration is still the Future Homes Standard. We are still building in legacy challenges by not adding storage to new builds.”
What motivated you to found the Energy Storage Association in the UK, and what are its mission and priorities?
Creating the Energy Storage Association has been a two-year project. I had been in the industry for a number of years, deeply frustrated that storage – across the whole supply chain, from manufacturers to distribution – was always the forgotten element of solar and storage.
I spoke to several trade bodies on solar generation and consistently found this obsession with generation, with storage taking a secondary role.
There was a shared frustration with manufacturers, educators, and companies. There was a common feeling of frustration, particularly across a few areas: behind-the-meter residential and commercial/industrial storage, and long-duration storage with a geological component, such as geo-hydrogen storage.
I met Mark Coyle, now at Good Energy, and we shared this passion. We simply needed to create this body. Mark was originally planned to be the CEO, but his consultancy work made his schedule too busy. I decided to take it on, leaving GivEnergy in March to found the Association.
We achieved a good consensus among manufacturers, educators, and energy companies willing to commit funds to get us off the ground, and we have been adding members since.
What key challenges did you identify when you started, and which have been most difficult to tackle so far?
I have created and launched businesses around the world, but starting a trade body was a new and much harder challenge than a typical business. Firstly, you rely on members putting money in to help you start.
Logistically, getting a business bank account for a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee, which is our structure, was almost impossible.
It took months with various banks to physically secure an account. That was the singular thing I was most frustrated about, because nothing else can work without it. You cannot have a business without banking.
Beyond that, we needed a website, promotion, and skills I didn’t have, but with no money, we couldn’t afford to do anything. We had to leverage help from some of the founders.
In the early days, it was a bit of ‘beg, borrow, and steal’ for things like legal support, with companies like Sunsynk and GivEnergy helping via their lawyers. My wife even did all the marketing and the website in her spare time.
What regulatory or policy gaps do you think are the biggest obstacles in the UK for scaling up storage deployments?
The policy side and the advocacy we are doing are huge elements. As I’ve engaged with DESNZ (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero) and NESO (National Energy System Operator), they have truly embraced us because they have lacked a dedicated voice to engage with on storage.
We are seeing real encouragement with the policy, particularly the flexibility roadmap, but the deep frustration is still the Future Homes Standard. We are still building in legacy challenges by not adding storage to new builds.
Octopus has proven that with solar, a heat pump, and a battery, you can eliminate energy bills for 10 years. Why are we not making this a standard? Why are we adding generation without considering the long-term needs of the community?
Another element, which we are engaged with GB Energy on, is making this technology available to all. We are working with GB Energy, which links into work with the Treasury, so that that this technology can be available to all people, not just those who can pay.
For those who can afford it, we need to simplify the process. For example, the VAT removal on energy storage from a couple of years ago needs to be made permanent.
There are also more structural issues. The government still hasn’t fully grasped the long-duration, geological storage element and how that will work, though it is in the roadmap as a potential if we can store and generate hydrogen.
Our goal is to create a comprehensive roadmap detailing how we believe storage should play out, which NESO, DESNZ, and everyone else can refer to and work towards.
What did you discuss in your talk and panel at the show?
I spoke about energy poverty and storage’s role in tackling it, which led to great interactions with several organisations. Our Chair, Baroness Berger, delivered a keynote on the importance of storage and how we need to think about it.
A panel featured a range of stakeholders discussing the importance of storage, where we explored what we can learn from those who have gone before us.
To you, why is it important that energy storage companies and stakeholders attend Solar & Storage Live?
We are at an exciting juxtaposition! We have been pushing generation hard, and now, with the flexibility roadmap, we are starting to focus on energy utilisation, grid services, and flexibility.
We know that renewable energy generation is intermittent, but demand is constant. The only way we can manage this is through flexibility – managing our generation and storing energy. People are truly starting to get their heads around this now.
This is a great show, and I’ve been really pleased that it has embraced the Energy Storage Association since we launched.
Missed out on Solar & Storage Live UK? Get your free ticket to Solar & Storage Live London – the capital’s most exciting solar event. Or, find a Solar & Storage Live event near you.
by Catie Owen | Nov 13, 2025 | Electric Vehicles, Europe, Innovation
The UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate is driving substantial growth in the automotive industry, with electric car sales consistently surpassing set targets.
The findings were published by the UK arm of The European Federation for Transport and Environment (T&E).
This policy is credited with pushing manufacturers to introduce a greater selection of affordable electric models, significantly boosting adoption by UK drivers.
October marked a new high point, with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounting for 26% of all new car sales. Further illustrating this shift, Renault reported that fully electric models comprised half of its total sales for the month.
The market data suggests a clear correlation between the availability of appealing BEV models and strong consumer demand, positioning electric vehicles as the primary engine for industry growth. Carmakers who have made early commitments to electrification are reportedly expanding their market share.
Mini is highlighted as a brand demonstrating this momentum. Since launching its first BEV in 2020, the brand’s B-segment electric share has grown to 20% by 2025, significantly outpacing its petrol lineup.
T&E UK Vehicles Policy Manager Tim Dexter commented: “The electric vehicle market isn’t just an opportunity, it’s a turning point for carmakers ready to lead. Whether it’s Tesla, BYD or Geely, multi-billion-pound businesses have been built by getting ahead of the curve. Legacy manufacturers can do the same if they act boldly and get their BEV strategy right.
“We’re already seeing car brands grow their market share with electric models, even where their petrol and diesel sales have stalled.”
The success of the EV market is intrinsically linked to the ZEV mandate, which has spurred market demand.
Dexter added: “This track record should prove to the government that the ZEV mandate and its 2035 phase-out date are crucial for UK automotive success.
“With robust targets, continued support for innovation, and investment in infrastructure, the UK’s automotive industry is well placed to lead the EV transition, creating new jobs, attracting investment, and placing British-built vehicles as a market leader.”
[Graph credit: T&E]
This series covers the developing electric vehicle market of the UK and its increasing infrastructure, as the nation advances its net-zero goals.
For all things EV, don’t miss out on your free ticket to EVCharge Live UK – taking place 22-24 September 2026.
