13/7/2025-Solar Energy Investment News & People Moves
- Viridian Energy
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Market Value of Solar Drops Slightly Again in June
In June 2025, the market value of solar power in Germany continued its downward trend, declining slightly compared to the previous month. The average market value dropped to 5.113 cents per kilowatt-hour, influenced by high solar feed-in and lower wholesale electricity prices.
This trend puts pressure on the profitability of solar power producers who rely on market revenues. While the solar output remains strong, the economic return is weakening, highlighting the importance of long-term contracts and diversification in revenue streams. Other renewable energy sources, such as wind and bioenergy, also experienced slight declines in market value during this period.
Statement on IEC Ban of Plug-in Solar Devices
The German solar industry has responded critically to the IEC's proposed ban on plug-in solar devices through a new draft standard. Stakeholders argue the move contradicts Germany’s energy transition goals by potentially limiting consumer access to balcony PV systems, which are key for citizen participation in renewable energy. Industry associations and experts are urging IEC and national committees to reconsider, emphasizing that current devices meet safety standards and offer clear benefits.
They stress the need for internationally harmonized standards that support innovation and decentralization, rather than create regulatory hurdles that could hinder the growth of small-scale solar installations.
ABO Energy Commissions First Solar Park in Brandenburg
ABO Energy has successfully connected its first solar park in Brandenburg to the grid. Located in the Elbe-Elster district, the plant has an output of 8.8 megawatts and will generate enough electricity to supply approximately 3,000 households annually. This milestone marks a significant step in ABO Energy’s broader strategy to expand solar and wind energy projects in Germany.
The company emphasized its commitment to regional development and sustainability. Future plans include integrating storage solutions and hybrid energy models. The successful commissioning also reflects growing momentum in Germany’s renewable sector and the importance of local project development and implementation.
Quadoro, EB-SIM fund buys two German solar parks developed by ABO
A joint venture between Quadoro (part of the Doric Group) and EB‑SIM (Sustainable Investment Management GmbH) has acquired two German solar parks from ABO Energy, marking the inaugural investments of their open-ended, Article 9‑compliant “Quadoro Erneuerbare Energien Europa” (QEEE).
The sites—an 8.3 MWp facility in Treuenbrietzen, Brandenburg, and a 17.6 MWp park in Bruchweiler, Rhineland‑Palatinate—entered the grid in June 2025. The Bruchweiler project benefits from both an EEG tariff and a PPA. QEEE aims for stable annual returns of 5–6% while contributing to Europe’s renewable energy transition
Solar Glass Manufacturer GMB Files for Insolvency
German solar glass manufacturer GMB has filed for insolvency due to financial difficulties caused by rising production costs and increased competition from low-cost imports, especially from Asia. Despite high demand in the solar sector, the company was unable to maintain profitability.
The insolvency could impact domestic solar module production, as locally sourced glass is a critical component. Industry observers warn that more manufacturers may face similar challenges without stronger industrial policy support. GMB’s case raises concerns about supply chain security and the need for strategic investment in domestic production capacities to safeguard Europe’s solar manufacturing sector.
USA News
Minnesota Approves One of Its Largest Single-Site Solar Projects
Minnesota regulators have approved the Sherco Solar project, one of the state’s largest single-site solar installations, with a planned capacity of 460 MW.
Developed by Xcel Energy, the project will be built on the site of a retiring coal plant in Becker, signifying a major step toward clean energy transition. The project will power approximately 100,000 homes annually and is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs. This approval aligns with Minnesota’s broader renewable energy targets and supports Xcel Energy’s goals for carbon-free electricity by 2050. Construction is expected to begin soon, with completion targeted for late 2026.
U.S. Congress Passes Anti-Clean Energy Budget Bill, Industry Reacts
The U.S. Congress has passed a controversial budget bill that includes provisions rolling back clean energy incentives and funding. The legislation, pushed by Republican lawmakers, could weaken federal support for solar, wind, and electric vehicle programs.
Industry leaders and climate advocates have strongly condemned the move, warning it jeopardizes progress toward climate goals and threatens green jobs. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and other groups are urging the Biden administration to use executive powers to mitigate the damage. The bill’s passage signals increasing political tension around the clean energy transition ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Solar Becomes Top Source of Electricity in California
In a historic milestone, solar energy has become the leading source of electricity in California, surpassing natural gas for the first time. According to the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), solar contributed over 30% of the state's electricity generation in early 2025, reflecting rapid growth in both utility-scale and distributed solar.
This achievement underscores California’s leadership in the clean energy transition and the effectiveness of its pro-renewables policies. However, it also raises challenges around grid reliability and storage needs during non-sunlight hours. The state is increasingly investing in battery storage to stabilize solar-heavy energy supply.
Dispatch Energy Receives $160 Million Investment from Terramont Infrastructure Partners
Dispatch Energy has secured a $160 million investment from Terramont Infrastructure Partners to expand its battery energy storage operations across the U.S. The funding will support the development, construction, and operation of several utility-scale projects aimed at enhancing grid stability and integrating renewable energy. Dispatch Energy plans to accelerate deployments in high-demand markets such as California, Texas, and New York.
The partnership highlights growing investor confidence in the energy storage sector as a critical enabler of the clean energy transition. Terramont sees Dispatch as a key player in addressing future energy challenges with scalable, flexible storage solutions.
Largest Solar Project in Wisconsin History Gets the Wildlife Greenlight
The 465 MW Koshkonong Solar Energy Center, the largest solar project in Wisconsin’s history, has received final environmental approval from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The project, developed by Invenergy, passed a comprehensive wildlife review confirming it poses minimal risk to local ecosystems.
Located in Dane County, the project also includes 165 MW of battery storage and is expected to power over 100,000 homes annually. Construction is slated to begin in late 2025. This marks a major milestone for renewable energy in the Midwest and sets a precedent for environmentally responsible utility-scale solar development.
Peoples Move
Klaus Steiner re-elected as Chairman of the Bavarian Energy and Water Industry Association
On July 9, 2025, during its annual meeting in Passau, the Verband der Bayerischen Energie‑ und Wasserwirtschaft (VBEW) unanimously re-elected Klaus Steiner as chairman of the Bavarian energy and water association. Steiner, managing director of Stadtwerke Dorfen, has led the 400‑member, 30,000‑employee organization since 2019.
His leadership helped members navigate challenges like the COVID‑19 pandemic and recent energy crisis He emphasized the sector’s critical mission—managing the energy transition and climate change while ensuring water security. Steiner reaffirmed VBEW’s role in supporting Bavaria’s drive toward a climate‑neutral future and urged continued collaboration across government, industry, and society.
Sara Kayal, PE, PMP – Vice President of Engineering and Procurement at AMPYR Energy USA
As of July 2025, Sara Kayal serves as the Vice President of Engineering and Procurement at AMPYR Energy USA, a leading renewable energy developer. With her credentials as a Professional Engineer (PE) and Project Management Professional (PMP), she brings extensive technical and leadership expertise to the role.
At AMPYR, she oversees the engineering design, procurement strategy, and execution of utility-scale solar and storage projects across the U.S. Her appointment signals the company’s continued investment in operational excellence as it scales its clean energy portfolio nationwide. Kayal is recognized for her strategic and detail-oriented approach.