Belectric builds 189-megawatt solar park in the Netherlands
Belectric, a leading solar developer, is constructing the 189-megawatt Eekerpolder solar park in Groningen, Netherlands, for renewable energy developer Novar. Set to be the country’s largest solar installation, the project spans 249 football pitches and aims for completion in May 2026.
Belectric will handle operations and maintenance with Novar's O&M partner, Klaer. Special construction techniques are employed to address challenging soil conditions. Belectric, with over 5 gigawatts of installed capacity globally, highlights this project as a milestone in the Dutch solar market, further solidifying its position as a key player in European open-space photovoltaics.
Europe must push global climate action
The German Institute for Economic Research (DIW) urges the EU to bolster global climate leadership amid Donald Trump’s potential return.
With U.S. climate action at risk, the EU can attract clean tech producers by offering stability. DIW warns against regressive competition, advocating increased green market incentives to counter global warming setbacks.
Trump's climate transition - Inside “drill, baby, drill”
Donald Trump’s presidency signals a shift in U.S. climate policy, emphasising fossil fuel expansion and domestic energy dominance. His administration's executive orders halt offshore wind projects, repeal emissions rules, and challenge Biden’s environmental initiatives.
Key energy appointments prioritise gas, coal, and nuclear. These moves create uncertainty for renewable developers relying on federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
While clean energy growth faces setbacks, nuclear and hydropower may benefit from streamlined permitting. Despite high oil and gas production, economic factors and global trends limit further drilling incentives, leaving Trump’s climate policies marked by conflicting directions and long-term ambiguities.
Defiant climate advocates from Germany call for EU resolve as Trump returns to office
The return of Donald Trump as U.S. president has spurred German officials and climate advocates to urge the EU to reinforce its climate action resolve. Economy Minister Robert Habeck criticised Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, calling it a “fatal signal,” and warned against increasing dependence on U.S. LNG imports.
Germany and the EU aim to resist U.S. pressure while advancing global climate cooperation. Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted U.S.-EU partnership potential, while Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed Europe’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, emphasising the need for unified global efforts to address the escalating impacts of climate change.
PNE AG sells its Swedish companies to Aneo
PNE AG has sold its Swedish subsidiaries, PNE Sverige AB and VKS Vindkraft Sverige AB, to Norwegian energy provider Aneo.
The deal includes a wind and photovoltaic project pipeline exceeding 1,000 MW, with 300 MW in advanced development and 700 MW in early stages. Aneo will also retain the companies' employees and continue developing their projects.
PNE AG CEO Heiko Wuttke expressed satisfaction with the sale, highlighting Aneo's commitment to renewable energy and stating that the proceeds will support PNE's growth in its core markets. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.
AIKO signs contract for Italy's largest agri-PV plant
AIKO, a leader in photovoltaic technology, has partnered with Futura Group Solar Construction SLR to build Italy's largest agri-photovoltaic plant in Serramanna, Sardinia.
The 48 MW project utilises AIKO's advanced Stellar 1N+66 modules with 655W output and over 24.2% efficiency, ensuring durability and minimal degradation over 30 years. Combining agriculture and renewable energy, the project highlights innovative land use and supports Italy's energy transition goals.
Futura Group commended AIKO's superior technology and professionalism. This collaboration underscores AIKO’s commitment to advancing sustainable practices and renewable energy adoption, marking a significant milestone for Italy's green energy sector.
Solar Peak Law: BSI warns against Chinese manufacturers' access to German photovoltaic systems
Germany's Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has raised concerns about the potential risks posed by Chinese manufacturers’ access to the German electricity supply through photovoltaic (PV) systems.
With a significant share of inverters in Germany coming from Chinese companies, the BSI warns of vulnerabilities that could allow direct access by manufacturers or exploitation through security flaws.
To mitigate risks, the BSI advocates for local operation of PV systems and grid-friendly control via intelligent measuring systems rather than manufacturer-controlled solutions. Industry representatives emphasise the need for legislative action and modern IT solutions to enhance grid security and address solar energy peaks.
Commercial roofs in focus: New order opportunities for solar installers with Landacquisition.com GmbH
Landacquisition.com GmbH is revolutionising commercial roof solar installations by connecting property owners with solar developers. Using advanced GIS technology, the platform identifies viable rooftops, evaluates structural and technical feasibility, and simplifies project placement.
This creates sustainable income opportunities for property owners and access to scalable projects for solar developers. Local solar installers gain from pre-screened, high-quality opportunities, optimising their resources and boosting business amidst a challenging market. Founded by experts Tobias Wöhrmann and Jan Donnermayer, with a track record of brokering over 1,800 MWp solar projects, the company supports the energy transition while maximising efficiency and sustainability.
Qualitas Energy appoints Johannes Overbeck as Co-CEO in Germany
Johannes Overbeck became Co-CEO of Qualitas Energy’s German business with Borja Caruana on January 1, 2025, to enhance strategic growth.
In 2024, the company achieved 3 GW in development pipeline capacity and 100 managed projects. Looking ahead, Qualitas Energy targets 4 GW in wind energy capacity with strengthened management.
ECO STOR GmbH welcomes new CFO Jörn Rohland
ECO STOR GmbH, a leading developer, installer and operator of battery storage solutions, is pleased to welcome Jörn Rohland as the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to the management team as of January 1, 2025.
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