04/5/2025-Solar Energy Investment News & People Moves
- Viridian Energy
- May 3
- 5 min read
European Solar PV News
What caused the blackout in Spain and Portugal, and did renewable energy play a part?
On April 28, 2025, Spain and Portugal experienced a widespread power outage that left millions without electricity. The blackout was caused by a sudden imbalance in the European power grid when 15 GW of power demand and supply dropped off simultaneously.
The disruption originated from a fault in a cross-border connection between Spain and France. Spanish officials, including Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, emphasized that renewable energy was not responsible for the blackout. Instead, the issue lay in grid coordination and infrastructure. Experts confirmed that renewable sources like wind and solar performed reliably during the incident. The event highlighted the need for better European grid integration, investment in storage and flexibility measures, and stronger communication between national operators to ensure resilience as the continent shifts further toward renewables.
European Markets Break Records for Solar Production in April
In April 2025, several European countries achieved record-breaking solar energy production. Germany led with 397 GWh on April 28, while Spain and Portugal reached 197 GWh and 22 GWh, respectively. Italy recorded its second-highest daily solar output at 144 GWh. Despite these achievements, average weekly electricity prices rose across most major European markets, indicating that increased solar production did not immediately translate to lower energy costs.
Goldbeck Solar and Encavis AG Celebrate Groundbreaking for 30 MWp Solar Park in Dos Hermanas, Sevilla
Goldbeck Solar and Encavis AG commenced construction on the 30 MWp "La Florida Hive" solar park in Dos Hermanas, Sevilla. The project represents a significant investment in Spain's renewable energy sector and is expected to contribute substantially to the region's clean energy supply.
Sunotec Enhances Project Efficiency Through Improved Goods Flow Control
Sunotec has implemented advanced control measures for goods flow to enhance the efficiency of its solar project implementations. By optimizing logistics and supply chain management, the company aims to reduce project timelines and costs, thereby increasing overall project efficiency and reliability.
USA Solar PV News
City of Fresno Expected to Save $122 Million with Solar and Storage Projects
Fresno, California, anticipates saving $122 million over 20 years through new solar and storage installations. The city's Department of Public Utilities partnered with ForeFront Power to develop a 27 MW portfolio across three sites, including a significant 19.6 MW system at the Fresno-Clovis Regional Wastewater Reclamation Facility.
The projects, constructed by local union labor, are expected to generate approximately 47 million kWh annually, equivalent to powering 6,000 homes. The installations also include 4.3 MW / 8 MWh of battery storage, utilizing Tesla and Sungrow batteries. The initiative was secured through a 20-year power purchase agreement, requiring no upfront costs from the city.
U.S. Solar Capacity Expected to Triple in Next 10 Years
The U.S. solar industry is projected to experience significant growth, with capacity expected to triple over the next decade. This expansion is driven by decreasing costs, supportive policies, and increasing demand for clean energy. The growth will necessitate substantial investments in grid infrastructure and energy storage solutions to accommodate the higher penetration of solar power and ensure grid reliability.
Amazon Expands Solar Investments
Amazon continues to invest heavily in solar energy projects as part of its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The company's latest initiatives include new solar installations across various locations, reinforcing its position as a leading corporate purchaser of renewable energy.
Schneider Electric Announces Facilitation of $1.7 Billion Tax Credit Transfers
Schneider Electric has facilitated $1.7 billion in tax credit transfers since late 2023, leveraging provisions from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). These 18 deals span renewable energy projects, battery storage, and other clean energy technologies. By collaborating with various companies, Schneider streamlined the tax credit transfer process, providing advisory, financial, and due diligence services to optimize investments.
This strategy not only aids in securing funding but also accelerates progress toward decarbonization goals. The IRA's transferability clause enables the transfer of eligible federal tax credits, creating a feasible alternative to traditional tax equity structures and expanding the range of entities that can benefit from tax credits in meeting decarbonization objectives
People Moves
Andrea Reichel – Team Lead CAD-Design, GOLDBECK SOLAR Gruppe
Andrea Reichel has recently joined GOLDBECK SOLAR Gruppe as Team Lead for CAD-Design. With a strong background in engineering and design, Andrea brings significant experience in managing technical drawing teams and delivering precision-driven design solutions for large-scale solar projects. At GOLDBECK SOLAR, she will oversee CAD operations, support project planning, and help drive efficiency and quality in the design process. Her leadership is expected to enhance coordination between engineering and construction teams. This appointment underscores GOLDBECK SOLAR’s focus on strengthening its technical capabilities to support its growing portfolio of international solar projects.
Stefan Schmidlkofer – Director BESS, MaxSolar GmbH
Stefan Schmidlkofer has taken on the role of Director BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) at MaxSolar GmbH. With extensive experience in energy storage technologies and renewable energy systems, Stefan will lead MaxSolar’s BESS strategy, overseeing project development, implementation, and innovation in storage solutions.
His role is critical to enhancing grid stability and integrating renewables more effectively. Stefan’s appointment reflects MaxSolar’s commitment to expanding its battery storage division as a key pillar in the energy transition. His leadership will help position MaxSolar at the forefront of scalable, sustainable energy storage systems across Germany and beyond.
Schneider Electric appointed Aamir Paul as President of North America Operations
Schneider Electric appointed Aamir Paul as President of North America Operations, emphasizing their commitment to sustainability and digital transformation. ACORE welcomed Lisa Jacobson as its new President, bringing extensive experience in clean energy policy.T1 Energy announced the hiring of Mark Davis as Chief Operating Officer, aiming to enhance operational efficiency. These appointments reflect the industry's focus on experienced leadership to navigate the evolving energy landscape and drive the transition toward renewable sources.
Jim Thomson has been promoted to Vice President of Operations at J&B Solar
Jim Thomson has been promoted to Vice President of Operations at J&B Solar, a leading player in the solar energy sector. In his new role, Jim oversees the company’s operational strategy, execution, and performance across its solar development and EPC activities. With a strong background in project delivery and organizational leadership, he is responsible for optimizing operational efficiency, scaling project execution, and ensuring high standards in safety, quality, and timelines.
His promotion reflects his proven track record in managing large-scale renewable energy projects and driving continuous improvement across teams and processes. Jim's leadership is instrumental as J&B Solar continues to expand its footprint in the utility-scale and commercial solar markets. His focus remains on delivering operational excellence and supporting the company’s mission to accelerate the transition to clean energy through innovation, reliability, and sustainable growth.
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