$30bn and 14% fall as the market finds new normal in ‘24
Venture and growth investment in 2024 totaled $30bn, down 14% from 2023, much less than the previous 24% drop, showing the sector settling into a new normal. While this decline reflects ongoing challenges, it’s notably smaller than the 24% drop seen in the previous year, suggesting that the climate tech sector is stabilizing into a new normal despite economic and geopolitical headwinds.
Enerix franchisee in Westerwald files for bankruptcy
Three interconnected companies—AH Energietechnik Westerwald GmbH & Co. KG, AH Dachtechnik Westerwald GmbH, and HW Wärmetechnik Westerwald GmbH—filed for preliminary insolvency before Christmas, affecting around 120 employees. Lawyer Klaus Ortmüller was appointed as the preliminary insolvency administrator.
The insolvency stems from a decline in demand for photovoltaic roof systems due to falling household energy costs, rising loan interest rates, and a weakened construction sector. Founded in 2019, AH Energietechnik grew rapidly but struggled with high fixed costs and an oversaturated market.
Enerix co-founder Peter Knuth clarified that only AH Energietechnik had a contractual relationship with Enerix, and the insolvency does not affect other franchise partners, who are legally independent. Efforts are ongoing to find an investor to preserve jobs and maintain operations. Knuth noted that smaller franchise partners are better equipped to handle the market downturn.
German solar capacity breaches 100 gigawatts – industry association
Germany's solar power capacity surpassed 100 gigawatts (GW) at the start of 2024, marking a significant milestone, according to BSW Solar.
Solar energy covered 14% of electricity consumption, up from 12% the previous year. In 2024, approximately 1 million photovoltaic systems with a 17 GW peak output were installed, driven primarily by ground-mounted solar parks (up 40%) and a doubling of plug-in balcony solar systems (0.7 GW).
However, growth in residential rooftop solar slowed, posing challenges for PV companies. The government aims to double capacity to 215 GW by 2030, but achieving this goal depends on reducing market barriers and creating attractive investment conditions. Public support remains strong, with two-thirds of citizens advocating for faster solar expansion and reduced bureaucratic hurdles.
Romania promotes construction of 1.5-gigawatt module factory
Romania's Ministry of Energy is funding a photovoltaic module factory with an annual capacity of 1.5 GW in Bârlad, northeastern Romania, through a €32.92 million subsidy under the EU-backed National Plan for Reconstruction and Resilience (PNRR). This is one of three projects approved for photovoltaic manufacturing under the PNRR, collectively expected to produce over 1.7 GW of solar modules annually with €47 million in state aid. These initiatives align with Romania's renewable energy goals, including a program to build 5 GW of wind and solar capacity.
Jinkosolar sues Longi for Topcon patent infringement
Jinkosolar has patent infringement lawsuit against Long ovTopcon solar cell technology, demanding cessation of infringement and compensation for damages. The Nanchang Intermediate People's Court will hold the first hearing on February 13, 2025.
Longi stated it has not yet received legal documents but emphasized its commitment to innovation and intellectual property protection and signaled a potential counterclaim if necessary.
In December 2024 , Jinpatent lawsuit against VSUN in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. Jinkosolar claims to hold over 2,800 patents, including 462 patents specifically related to n-type Topcon technology, positioning it as a leader in Topcon innovation.
Neoen begins construction of large storage facility in Saxony-Anhalt
French renewable energy developer Neoen has started construction on a 45 MW/90 MWh battery storage facility in Arneburg, Germany, its first project in the country. Scheduled to be fully operational by 2026, the facility, built by Italian manufacturer Nidec, aims to ensure grid stability. Neoen plans to retain full ownership and operation of the facility.
Globally, Neoen manages a storage portfolio of 2.3 GW/5.3 GWh, including major projects like Australia’s Collie Battery (560 MW/2,240 MWh). In Germany, Neoen is advancing additional storage projects with over 1 GW in its pipeline. The company’s German headquarters is in Karlsruhe.
Promotion of Max Mages as Head of Sales at MaxSolar GmbH.
MaxSolar GmbH, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions, is pleased to announce promotion of Max Mages as the new Head of Sales. With extensive experience in driving sales strategies and fostering sustainable growth, Max brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role.
Dirk Simons is the new Chairman of the Supervisory Board of PNE AG
The announcement of Dirk Simons as the new Chairman of the Supervisory Board of PNE AG marks a significant leadership development for the company. Simons brings decades of experience in the energy industry, specifically in renewable energy and transformation management, to guide PNE AG in its strategic growth and market positioning.
Janos Hergert new Country Manager - Germany, Bridge Power GmbH at Groupe Ponticelli Frères
Janos Hergert has been appointed as the new Country Manager - Germany at Bridge Power GmbH, a subsidiary of Groupe Ponticelli Frères. His role will involve overseeing the German operations of the company, ensuring strategic alignment with the broader goals of the parent group, and driving business growth in Germany's dynamic energy and infrastructure sectors.
Julian Gerstner is now Co-Founder & Managing Director at MIRAI Power
Julian Gerstner is the Co-Founder and Managing Director at MIRAI Power, a company that operates in the renewable energy sector, focusing on innovative and sustainable energy solutions.
Julian has commented that "MIRAI will develop, build, and operate grid-connected battery storage projects across Europe and thus make a significant contribution to net-zero.
The global energy transition has not only been my professional endeavour for more than 10 years but also my personal passion. I am therefore all the more excited to be able to make a major contribution to the successful decarbonization of the energy system with my own company.
The MIRAI founding team combines 20 years of successful track record in the field of projects worldwide and we will use this expertise to implement benchmark-setting energy-storage projects.
Our first pipeline will be in Germany, with the clear goal of internationalization in the short term."
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