Author: Jane Briones

“Bluefield’s Solar Revolution: Pioneering a Greener Future in Northumberland”

                  In an exciting leap towards a sustainable future, Bluefield Renewable Developments has recently received the green light for its groundbreaking solar farm project in the heart of Northumberland, marking a significant stride in renewable energy initiatives in north-east England. This innovative project, nestled in Bedlington, near the Burnt House solar farm, is not just another solar farm; it’s a 49.9MW powerhouse paired with a state-of-the-art 60MW battery energy storage system. This dynamic duo promises to not only harness the sun’s energy but also to store it efficiently, ensuring a consistent and reliable energy supply to the grid.But Bluefield’s vision goes beyond just generating power. The project is strategically located on a former open cast coal mining site, a nod to the region’s industrial past while paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.

                  Councillor Barry Flux lauded the site’s selection, emphasizing its minimal intrusiveness compared to other renewable energy forms. What’s truly remarkable about Bluefield’s approach is its commitment to community and environment. The Broadway House Farm project, which received unanimous approval from councillors, is designed to be more than an energy generator. It’s set to become a haven for biodiversity, featuring a wildflower meadow, rich grasslands, and enhanced hedgerows, creating a vibrant ecosystem alongside energy production. In a move that seamlessly blends traditional and modern practices, Bluefield plans to use the solar site for sheep grazing post-construction, showcasing an innovative model of coexistence between food and energy production. Furthermore, Bluefield is dedicated to giving back to the community. A substantial contribution of at least £300,000 is earmarked for local community projects, underlining their commitment to not just harnessing energy from the sun, but also energizing and supporting the local community. This project is a part of a larger vision by Bluefield, which operates under the guidance of the Bluefield Solar Income Fund (BSIF). With over 100 solar farms in the UK and a capacity exceeding 800MW, this new addition is set to bolster their already impressive portfolio. Alan Connolly, Bluefield’s development director, highlights the collaborative spirit of the project, praising the constructive relationship forged with the county council and local community. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when innovation, environmental consciousness, and community engagement come together. As Bluefield continues to chart its course in renewable energy, its latest venture at Broadway House Farm stands as a beacon of hope and a model for sustainable development, promising a brighter and greener future for Northumberland and beyond.

Credits: [Image: Bluefield]

Solar Power Takes a Giant Leap: Ib Vogt’s Landmark Virtual PPAs in Spain

               In an exciting development for the renewable energy sector, international solar developer Ib Vogt has announced a groundbreaking move. They have secured virtual Power Purchase Agreements (vPPAs) with two scientific powerhouses, Thermo Fisher Scientific and Eurofins Scientific. This deal is not just a transaction, but a significant stride towards sustainable energy solutions. Thermo Fisher Scientific is set to receive 91MW, while Eurofins Scientific will benefit from a 36MW capacity. The source of this clean energy? The impressive 174MWp Serbal solar power plant, a gem in Ib Vogt’s crown, strategically positioned in Spain. This isn’t just a solar farm; it’s a beacon of modern engineering and environmental responsibility. Ib Vogt isn’t only developing this project; they are bringing it to life, constructing it with cutting-edge technology and a vision for a greener future. What’s particularly notable is the utilization of the solar farm’s remaining capacity. The surplus electricity won’t go to waste; instead, it will be channelled into the wholesale market, maximizing the potential of every sunbeam captured.

               Here’s a game-changer: the vPPA will revolutionize the energy footprint of Thermo Fisher’s continental European sites. Over half of them will transition to 100% renewable energy, marking a significant leap towards the company’s ambitious Net Zero goal. This switch is more than a policy; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future. The timeline? We’re looking at early 2025, when the Serbal solar farm is expected to hit its commercial stride. Nestled west of Segovia in Castile and León, this solar farm isn’t just a plot of land with panels. It’s a powerhouse slated to generate approximately 328GWh of pristine solar electricity annually. Imagine harnessing the sun’s power with an innovative single-axis tracking system and bifacial modules. That’s not just engineering; it’s art. The impact? Immense. The Serbal project isn’t just producing energy; it’s redefining energy consumption standards. It’s the equivalent of powering 83,000 households and slashing 71,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually over its 30-year lifespan. This isn’t just a project; it’s a legacy for our planet. Anton Milner, the visionary CEO of Ib Vogt, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort that made this vPPA possible. His thanks especially went to Thermo Fisher and Eurofins Scientific for their role in propelling Spain’s energy transition. Milner’s words resonate with a sense of pride and purpose: corporate PPAs are more than deals; they are partnerships for a sustainable future. Ib Vogt isn’t just in the business of creating solar farms; they are in the business of powering sustainable transformations, one project at a time, for companies and communities across Spain. This isn’t just a story about solar power; it’s a narrative of hope, collaboration, and a brighter, cleaner future for all.

Credits: [Image: Ib Vogt]

Ireland’s Green Energy Revolution: Orsted’s Pioneering Solar Venture in Garreenleen

               Orsted, a leader in sustainable energy solutions, has taken a monumental leap in Ireland’s renewable energy sector. The company has made a final investment decision (FID) on the first phase of an ambitious 81MW solar project. This groundbreaking initiative, named Garreenleen solar farm, is located merely 15km from the vibrant Carlow town and represents Orsted’s first-ever solar investment on Irish soil. Set to be operational by 2026, Garreenleen is not just a solar farm; it’s a beacon of Ireland’s green energy future. This project is poised to elevate Orsted’s operational capacity in Ireland to a staggering 500MW. This milestone was reached following the project’s triumph in the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme 3 (RESS 3) auction, held in September 2023. The RESS 3 was a resounding success for Orsted, with two of its projects, encompassing both wind and solar energy, totaling 124MW clearing the auction.

               What makes this project even more compelling is its economic feasibility. The RESS 3 auction witnessed an average strike price of €100.47 per megawatt-hour (MWh). This pricing is not only competitive but aligns seamlessly with similar green energy initiatives across Europe. Kieran White, Orsted’s senior vice president of onshore in Europe, shared his enthusiasm: “Solar energy is pivotal for Ireland’s transition to a fully green power system. We’re thrilled to commence our journey in Irish solar energy with the Garreenleen farm. While it’s our inaugural solar project here, our robust pipeline of other projects, advancing steadily in consenting and grid access stages, fuels our optimism for more such ventures.” Garreenleen stands out for its strategic location, boasting a short grid route to a strong meshed node in the national electricity network. This area is anticipated to face minimal grid constraints. Moreover, this investment isn’t just about the solar farm. It encompasses the installation of essential grid infrastructure, paving the way for a potential second phase of the project, which Orsted hopes to commit to in the upcoming year. Ireland is on the cusp of a green revolution, and Orsted’s Garreenleen solar farm is a shining example of the country’s commitment to a sustainable future. As we move closer to 2026, the eyes of the world will be on Garreenleen, a symbol of progress, innovation, and hope for a greener planet.

Credits: [Image: Orsted]

               Enfinity Global Ignites a Bright Future with €118m Investment in Italian Solar Power. Enfinity Global, a trailblazer in renewable energy, has recently achieved a significant milestone by securing a whopping €118 million in financing. This substantial investment is earmarked for an ambitious venture – the construction of four utility-scale solar power plants in Italy. These plants, with their impressive combined capacity of 101MW, are set to make a notable impact in the region of Lazio. As we look forward to 2024, the year these projects are expected to come online, there’s an air of excitement about the positive changes they will bring. This development is not just a step towards green energy but a leap into a sustainable future.

               The financial orchestration behind this project is as impressive as its environmental impact. Leading the charge are UniCredit, BayernLB, and Siemens Financial Services through Siemens Bank. These financial powerhouses have come together in a club deal structure, providing a robust financial backbone for the initiative. The funding includes €77 million of non-recourse senior debt, €41 million for VAT financing, and additional Letter of Credit facilities for Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and photovoltaic (PV) modules. Carlos Domenech, the Chief Executive of Enfinity Global, expressed his enthusiasm about this collaboration. “We are thrilled to join forces with UniCredit, BayernLB, and Siemens Bank for these initial projects as we expand our existing 4GW portfolio in Italy,” he said. Domenech’s vision is clear – to contribute significantly to Italy’s energy needs while helping the country meet its carbon emission reduction targets through competitive clean energy. But this is just the beginning of Enfinity Global’s journey in Italy. The company is already in the process of building four additional projects in the province of Viterbo (Lazio), totaling 134MW. These projects, backed by a prior €165 million financing, underscore Enfinity Global’s commitment to transforming Italy’s energy landscape. In summary, Enfinity Global is not just investing in solar power plants; it’s investing in a brighter, greener, and more sustainable future for Italy. As these projects progress, they promise to be a beacon of hope and a model for renewable energy initiatives worldwide.

Credits: [Image: Enfinity Global]

               A New Dawn in Renewable Energy: Acciona Energia’s 380MW Aldoga Solar Farm Set for 2024 Launch in Australia. In a groundbreaking announcement, Acciona Energia has set the stage for a renewable energy revolution with the planned commencement of its 380MW Aldoga solar farm in Australia. This monumental project is expected to kick off in the first quarter of 2024, marking a significant milestone in the country’s renewable energy journey. With a staggering investment of A$500 million (€300 million), the Aldoga solar farm is not just an energy project but a beacon of economic growth and environmental stewardship. Situated just 20km northwest of Gladstone on the scenic central Queensland coast, this solar farm is poised to become a central hub for clean energy production in the region.

               The construction phase of the Aldoga solar farm is more than just about building an energy facility; it’s a boon for local employment. Over an 18-month period, the project will generate a peak workforce of 350 jobs, offering a vital lifeline to the local community and injecting new energy into the local economy. But the true heart of this project lies in its environmental impact and its partnership with Stanwell Corporation, Queensland’s publicly owned energy giant. Under a 15-year power purchase agreement, the photovoltaic plant will play a crucial role in powering Stanwell’s ambitious green hydrogen project, Central Queensland Hydrogen (CQ-H2). This pioneering hydrogen project is set to enter commercial operations by 2028, marking a new era in clean energy production. The Aldoga solar farm is a marvel of modern engineering and environmental consciousness. Once operational, it will generate enough clean electricity to power nearly 185,000 homes, dramatically reducing the region’s carbon footprint. The project is expected to prevent around 934,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, making it a key player in the fight against climate change. As we look forward to the commencement of the Aldoga solar farm in 2024, it represents more than just an energy project. It’s a symbol of hope, a testament to human ingenuity, and a step forward in our collective quest for a sustainable future. Stay tuned as we follow this exciting journey towards a cleaner, greener world.”

Credits: [Image: Acciona Energia]

Stepping into a Brighter, Greener Future: BP’s Full Acquisition of Lightsource BP

In a bold move towards a more sustainable future, BP has set its sights on complete ownership of solar powerhouse Lightsource BP. This significant step not only marks a new chapter in BP’s diversification strategy but also reinforces its commitment to leading the energy transition.

A Leap Towards Full Solar Integration

BP’s decision to acquire the remaining 50.03% stake in Lightsource BP is a game-changer. This move, agreed upon as the perfect timing for both entities, signifies a deepening of BP’s investment in renewable energy. Lightsource BP, a name synonymous with solar excellence, operates on a unique, capital-light model. This model has not only proven its worth in developing, engineering, and constructing solar projects but also in its ability to farm down majority interests, creating substantial value along the way.

The Power of Synergy

What makes this acquisition particularly strategic is the fusion of Lightsource BP’s solar expertise with BP’s robust capabilities in finance, trading, and overall business acumen. The full ownership model will enable BP to scale Lightsource BP to new heights, leveraging each other’s strengths to foster growth and generate additional value. This collaboration is poised to deliver mid-teen equity returns consistently, a testament to the strength of this partnership.

Fueling BP’s Low Carbon Ambitions

This integration is more than a business expansion; it’s a key step in BP’s journey towards reducing carbon footprints. By utilizing Lightsource BP’s exceptional skills in developing cost-effective, utility-scale renewable power, BP plans to meet its own increasing demands for low-carbon energy. This move is expected to bolster BP’s initiatives in hydrogen, EV charging, biofuels, and power trading, firmly anchoring its position in the green energy landscape.

A Vision for 2024 and Beyond

With regulatory approvals underway, this landmark transaction is anticipated to reach completion by mid-2024. Anja-Isabel Dotzenrath, BP’s executive vice president for gas and low-carbon energy, encapsulates the sentiment: “This is not just a transaction; it’s the evolution of a six-year partnership. As we integrate Lightsource BP into our fold, we’re not just scaling a business; we’re accelerating our journey towards a low-carbon future. We’re excited to welcome the Lightsource BP team and are confident that together, we will redefine what it means to be a leader in global renewable development.”

In essence, BP’s full acquisition of Lightsource BP isn’t just a business move; it’s a commitment to a sustainable future, a testament to the power of synergy, and a beacon of hope for a greener world.

Credits: [Image: Lightsource BP]

               “Revolutionizing the Energy Landscape: DIF Capital Partners Strikes a Transformative Deal with Novar”. In a groundbreaking move, DIF Capital Partners has inked a deal to acquire a 60% stake in Novar, the trailblazing solar and energy storage developer from the Netherlands. This strategic partnership is more than just a business transaction; it’s a step towards a brighter, more sustainable future. With this investment, DIF is not only injecting growth capital but also igniting the expansion of Novar’s impressive portfolio in utility-scale solar, rooftop solar, and cutting-edge battery energy storage systems (BESS). This move is set to enhance Novar’s already formidable presence in the renewable energy sector. Novar, with its headquarters nestled in the vibrant city of Groningen, is no small player in the green energy game.

               They boast ownership and operation of a whopping 440MW in utility-scale and rooftop solar, along with BESS projects. But that’s not all – they have an eye-popping development project pipeline exceeding 15GW. Among Novar’s exciting ventures is a pioneering private grid project in the Netherlands. This project isn’t just about connecting several of their large-scale solar and BESS projects; it’s also about launching the nation’s first solar thermal and green hydrogen projects. Novar stands out with its fully integrated independent power producer (IPP) model, showcasing its all-encompassing approach to renewable energy. Gijs Voskuyl from DIF Capital Partners shares his enthusiasm: “Investing in Novar is not just about backing the Dutch solar market leader, it’s about being part of a legacy with a proven track record in both ground-mounted and rooftop projects. With Novar’s existing 440MW portfolio and an extensive pipeline in solar and storage projects, we are thrilled to contribute to the energy transition and look forward to a future of collaborative growth.” Echoing this sentiment, Gerben Smit, CEO of Novar Holding, highlights the strategic partnership’s potential: “This alliance with DIF is a game-changer for Novar. It empowers us to dream bigger, expand our international footprint, and aim for a staggering 4GW of operating capacity by 2030.” The deal, crafted with the expertise of KPMG, McKinsey, Arup, and NautaDutilh for DIF, and Voltiq, Eversheds Sutherland, and Hogan Lovells for Novar, is on the brink of closure, awaiting regulatory nods. Set to finalize in the fourth quarter of 2023, this partnership is not just a business merger; it’s a beacon of hope for a sustainable future.

Credits: [Image: Novar/Jordi Huisman/G2K]

               In an impressive display of commitment to green energy, the 204MW Edenvale Solar Park in Queensland, Australia, marks a significant stride in sustainable development. Strategically located in Chinchilla, just 300km from Brisbane, this solar marvel stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts in the realm of renewable energy. This grand project, masterfully constructed by GRS, the solar EPC contractor arm of the Gransolar Group, for Sojitz Corporation and Eneos, is not just an energy-producing giant but a symbol of environmental commitment.

               The inauguration of the Edenvale Solar Park was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of key figures, including Cameron Dick, the regional Minister for Trade and Investment. Their attendance underlined the strong institutional support for green energy initiatives in Queensland. Jordi Vega, the Chief Operating Officer of Gransolar, reflected on the significance of this project at the ceremony: “Edenvale is an important milestone in Gransolar’s successful track record in Australia. The synergies created between the business units within our group (ISE, GRS, and PVH) have once again contributed immensely to decarbonization efforts in Queensland, a region deeply committed to environmental preservation.” GRS’s global impact is noteworthy, with operations spanning all five continents. They have achieved an impressive 2.5GW of installed capacity worldwide, with almost 3.5GW under development. This global footprint underscores their pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future, one solar project at a time.

Credits: Image: Gransolar Group