MET Group takes over energy suppliers in Benelux countries
MET Group, based in Zug, is set to acquire a 68.5% stake in Belgian energy and telecom provider Mega Group International, pending regulatory approval. The deal is expected to close in Q2 2025.
Founders and co-CEOs Michael Corhay and Thomas Coune will retain a 31.5% stake and continue leading the company. Mega, headquartered in Liège, serves over 500,000 residential customers in Belgium and the Netherlands.
With MET Group’s expertise, Mega aims to expand its energy supply to SMEs and industrial clients, strengthening its market position in the Benelux region.
Solarpark Südeifel – one of the largest solar parks in Germany: successful final acceptance by TÜV Rheinland
TÜV Rheinland, a global leader in testing and certification, has completed the final acceptance of the 200 MWp Südeifel solar park, one of Germany’s largest.
Covering 40 hectares, the park comprises 14 systems, with the largest at 35 MWp. Generating 160 million kWh annually, it supplies 53,000 households, reducing emissions and supporting the local economy.
TÜV Rheinland conducted extensive inspections, ensuring compliance with all safety and quality standards. With over 40 years in solar technology, TÜV Rheinland employs 1,000 specialists globally, performing 50,000+ tests annually, contributing to the energy transition. The company operates in 50+ countries with 22,000 employees.
Capital increase for a future with even more renewable energies
Four years after its founding, NaturEnergy is launching its first public capital increase to support sustainable growth.
Over 1,700 shareholders recently provided more than €5 million in fresh capital.
A spin-off from natur strom AG, Germany’s leading independent green electricity provider, NaturEnergy will invest in wind and solar farms, storage, and grid connections, adding 50-70 MW annually. Managing directors Dr. Thomas E. Banning and Jürgen Koppmann emphasize citizen-driven energy investment.
The downward price trend has been reversed
After a prolonged decline, solar module prices have started rising for the first time in over two years, driven by production cuts and growing scarcity. Retailers are stockpiling, anticipating further price increases until at least next quarter. Delayed deliveries from major brands suggest a tightening supply chain, impacting both residential and large-scale projects.
While overcapacity remains a concern, production slowdowns could stabilize the market. In Germany, policy changes emphasize energy storage and flexibility, favoring adaptable installers. Higher prices may improve module quality, ensuring reliability. The shift highlights the growing importance of smart energy management and storage solutions.
Reactions to the federal election: The energy industry demands clear conditions
The energy industry is calling for clear policies and stability following Germany’s federal election, which saw Friedrich Merz and the CDU/CSU set to govern with the SPD. Industry associations stress the need for a long-term regulatory framework beyond legislative cycles to ensure the success of the energy transition.
Key demands include maintaining the Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, expanding renewables, accelerating hydrogen-capable gas plant tenders, and lowering electricity costs. Experts emphasize that solar and wind energy remain the most cost-effective options, urging the government to continue supporting renewables for economic growth and climate neutrality.
Series – Election programs fit for the energy transition: SPD
The SPD aims to accelerate the expansion of renewable energy while reducing electricity prices. They propose introducing system flexibility to balance supply and demand, capping grid charges at three cents per kWh, and lowering electricity tax to the EU minimum.
The state should cover grid transformation costs. They support a CO₂ price of €55/t in 2025 and €65/t in 2026, with socially fair climate money to offset burdens.
The SPD wants to prevent carbon leakage by complementing the EU CBAM with export subsidies and local content rules. European CO₂ pricing must include measures to avoid excessive burdens on households.
First Solar files Topcon patent lawsuit against Jinko and licenses patents to Talon
First Solar has filed a patent lawsuit against Jinkosolar over Topcon technology, citing infringement of US patent no. 9,130,074, valid until 2030 across multiple countries. The lawsuit was filed in Delaware after failed negotiations. Simultaneously, First Solar has licensed the patent to Talon PV, which plans a 4 GW Topcon solar cell production by 2027.
This legal dispute follows similar patent conflicts involving Longi Solar, Jinkosolar, Qcells, and Waaree Energies.
Meanwhile, First Solar reported strong 2024 financial results, with revenue rising to $4.21 billion and gross profit increasing to $1.86 billion, reflecting strategic growth and innovation efforts.
BayWa AG: Frank Hiller new CEO, Matthias J. Rapp new CFO
BayWa AG: Frank Hiller new CEO, Matthias J. Rapp new CFO
Munich, 27 February 2025 - The Supervisory Board of BayWa AG has approved the appointment of Dr. Frank
Hiller as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Prof. Dr. Matthias J. Rapp as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Both will be appointed to the Board of Management as of March 1, 2025.
Memodo appoints new Vice Presidents for Category Management and Finance
Memodo is expanding its management team to include Marco Piel and Kim Feigl as VPs for Category Management and Finance.
The Munich-based company is thus strengthening its established position as a leading PV wholesaler for photovoltaics, charging stations and heating systems.
Both appointments are part of the company's strategic focus on offering sustainable solutions for the energy transition and further positioning itself as a strong partner for the renewable energy industry.
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