09/11/2025-Solar Energy Investment News & People Moves
- Viridian Energy
- Nov 8
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 10
USA News
ContourGlobal Secures $350 Million, Its First U.S. Solar Project Financing
ContourGlobal has closed a $350 million tax-equity financing deal for its first U.S. solar project, the 324 MW Black Hollow Sun in Colorado. The project is being built in two phases — the first 185 MW is already operational, serving a community-owned utility, and the second phase (139 MW) is expected to come online by the end of 2026. Upon completion, the project will generate enough clean electricity to power tens of thousands of homes.
Clearway Wraps Up 140 MW Solar + 117 MW Storage Project in Kern County
Clearway Energy Group has commissioned its Rosamond South 1 project in Kern County, California, comprising 140 MW of solar capacity and 117 MW of energy storage. The facility is now commercially operational and is expected to power over 72,000 homes annually, delivering dependable clean energy especially during times of peak demand.
NYSERDA Grants $7 Million to Co-Locate Solar and Agriculture Throughout New York
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has awarded more than $7 million to support agrivoltaic projects — hybrid sites that combine solar energy generation with active agricultural operations. Four demonstration projects received over $2 million, while Cornell University got $5 million to build agrivoltaic research facilities at its farms. These initiatives aim to optimize land use, support farmers’ incomes, and study how solar and agriculture can coexist sustainably.
Bechtel to Build Cold Creek Solar + Storage Project for Doral in Texas
Bechtel has been selected by Doral Renewables to engineer, procure, and construct the Cold Creek Solar + Storage project in Texas, spanning Schleicher and Tom Green counties. The facility will deliver around 430 MW of solar power and include a 340 MWh battery energy storage system, enhancing grid reliability and delivering clean energy when demand peaks.
SOLV Energy to Build 209 MW Texas Solar Project for Sol Systems
SOLV Energy has been appointed by Sol Systems as the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractor for a 209 MW_dc solar photovoltaic project in Uvalde, Texas. The project is expected to become operational in 2026, powering nearly 58,000 homes and generating about 300 construction jobs during peak development.
Germany News
A Turning Point for Photovoltaics on Conversion Sites
Germany’s Ministry of Defense has imposed a moratorium on converting former military training grounds, airfields, and barracks—sites once eyed for solar development. About 200 such locations, many ideal for PV installations under Germany’s EEG framework, are now being reserved for potential future military reuse. This shift could jeopardize planned and prospective solar projects, raising concerns among developers and local governments. The decision underlines a geopolitical pivot, placing national security above renewable-energy expansion.
Entrix Launches AI-Driven Battery Optimization Platform in Germany
Entrix, a German energy trading firm, has introduced an AI-powered optimization system for battery storage, targeting Iberian solar networks. The platform leverages real-time market data, state-of-charge, and technical characteristics to maximize economic and operational performance. Entrix will apply this technology across all relevant markets—including balancing, day-ahead, and intraday markets—to unlock higher flexibility and revenue streams. Their long-term vision includes integrating battery systems with their renewable generation portfolio to improve returns and grid stability.
Eco Stor Begins Construction of Germany’s Largest Battery Storage Project
Eco Stor has broken ground on a massive 300 MW / 714 MWh battery storage facility in Förderstedt, Saxony-Anhalt, making it the largest of its kind under development in Germany. The system, privately funded, will span roughly eight hectares and feature modular infrastructure divided into three independent blocks. Through close collaboration with local grid operators, Eco Stor aims to provide more than two hours of flexible clean energy and significantly enhance grid reliability.
LEAG Builds 4000 MWh Storage in Jänschwalde
LEAG has announced the construction of a “GigaBattery” at its Jänschwalde site in Brandenburg, with a capacity of 1,000 MW and 4,000 MWh — making it one of the largest battery storage facilities in Germany. The project, based on Fluence’s SmartStack technology, aims to support grid stability and better integrate wind and solar energy. The groundbreaking is expected in mid-2026, with commercial operation targeted for late 2027 or early 2028.
SENEC CEO Herbert Schein: “We Are Back in the Market”
Herbert Schein, who became CEO of SENEC in March 2025, says the company has largely completed a major recall of home battery systems following fire incidents — more than 95% of the affected units have now been replaced.
Under his leadership, SENEC has streamlined its operations, enhanced collaboration with partners, and introduced a new wall-mountable home storage product (the “E4”) that boasts system availability over 99%. He emphasises that with strengthened digital energy management and a secure “made in Germany” data infrastructure, SENEC is regaining its strong position in the market.
Peoples Move
James Dermody, P.E. – Sr. Power Generation Portfolio Manager, Aligned Data Centers
James Dermody oversees the power generation portfolio at Aligned Data Centers, focusing on integrating reliable and sustainable energy solutions for large-scale data center operations.
With a strong engineering background, he ensures optimal project execution across power infrastructure developments, emphasizing efficiency, grid stability, and renewable energy sourcing. His role supports Aligned’s commitment to high-performance, low-carbon data centers across the U.S., aligning with the company’s sustainability and expansion goals.
Saurabh Mishra – Director of Pre-Construction Energy Storage, SOLV Energy
Saurabh Mishra leads pre-construction activities for energy storage projects at SOLV Energy, managing early-stage project design, engineering, and feasibility. His expertise bridges technical design with financial and operational planning, ensuring cost-effective and scalable battery storage deployment.
Saurabh’s leadership plays a crucial role in expanding SOLV’s energy storage portfolio, enabling grid resiliency and renewable integration across North America. He works closely with developers, utilities, and EPC teams to streamline project delivery from concept to construction.
Eric Meyer – Director of Project Controls, Priority Power
Eric Meyer directs project controls at Priority Power, overseeing scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment, and performance tracking for complex energy projects. His role ensures precision and accountability across project lifecycles, supporting the delivery of renewable and energy infrastructure on time and within budget.
With deep expertise in data analytics and cost control, Eric enhances operational transparency and drives project efficiency. At Priority Power, he contributes to strategic decision-making for both traditional and renewable energy portfolios, reinforcing disciplined project management practices companywide.
Daniel Seuffert is the Operations Director at Greencells Group, a leading international EPC and solar project developer.
With extensive experience in project execution and operational leadership, he oversees the planning, construction, and delivery of large-scale solar PV projects worldwide.
Daniel plays a key role in optimizing processes, ensuring project quality, and maintaining profitability across Greencells’ global portfolio. Known for his strong technical background and strategic management approach, he focuses on driving efficiency, safety, and sustainability in renewable energy operations. His leadership supports Greencells’ mission to deliver innovative and reliable solar energy solutions in the transition toward a cleaner energy future.
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