DRI has witnessed unprecedented growth in its renewable energy portfolio, scaling up its operations across multiple countries. The company currently holds 173MW of operational projects, 126MW under construction, and over 990MW in development, covering onshore wind, photovoltaic (PV), and battery storage technologies.

From DRI highlights to Strategic Energy Europe that 2024 has been a landmark year for the company, both in terms of portfolio expansion and geographical reach. With five new projects and a total pipeline of 1.3 GW, DRI is driving renewable energy development in strategic markets such as Italy, Poland, Romania, and Croatia.

Several projects reached commercial operation this year, solidifying DRI’s position in these regions. In Romania, the Ruginoasa wind farm and the Glodeni I solar park were successfully commissioned, while the Glodeni II solar park completed construction and began generating power.

In Poland, DRI acquired a 133MW battery storage system in Trzebinia, marking the country’s largest standalone BESS project to date. Meanwhile, in Italy, DRI secured the financial close of a 166MWp portfolio of four solar plants in Sardinia, bringing its total capacity in the country to over 500MWp. In Croatia, the company is progressing with the construction of the Brda Umovi wind farm (156MW) and the Vedrine solar park (60MWp), located in Split-Dalmatia County.

Expanding into Energy Storage: A Strategic Bet on BESS

As Europe moves towards a decarbonised energy system, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are becoming increasingly critical. DRI is investing heavily in this technology to enhance grid flexibility and stability. At company states that energy storage is a game-changer for the renewable sector, allowing the company to store excess energy and release it when demand peaks or when wind and solar generation is low.

DRI’s Poland BESS project, with a capacity of 133MW / 532MWh, is a prime example of the company’s vision for storage. This facility, expected to be operational by early 2027, will help stabilise the Polish grid and support the country’s renewable energy goals.

Beyond standalone battery projects, DRI is also developing co-located storage solutions with its wind and solar farms to improve efficiency and manage intermittency. The executive adds that DRI is actively exploring further storage opportunities across all its markets, aligning with the increasing demand for flexible energy solutions.

Strategic Expansion into New European Markets

While strengthening its existing presence, DRI is also eyeing new markets across Central and Eastern Europe, evaluating opportunities in countries with high renewable potential, low saturation, and stable regulatory frameworks.

At DRI, they xplains that the company is particularly interested in markets that have clear national renewable targets and offer mechanisms like Contracts for Difference (CfDs) or other incentives that make projects viable.

Regulatory frameworks remain a crucial factor for investment. DRI actively participates in policy discussions and industry associations to advocate for investment-friendly conditions for renewables and BESS technologies. The company notes that the regulatory landscape is constantly evolving, and the company engages with policymakers to ensure that frameworks support long-term investments in clean energy.

Expansion and a Growing Global Team

Beyond project growth, DRI has significantly expanded its workforce. In 2024, the company established five new offices in Zagreb, Milan, Rome, Warsaw, and Bucharest, reinforcing its local presence in key markets. From DRI highlights that the company is building a strong, diverse, and highly skilled team. The workforce has grown to nearly 100 professionals from 24 different nationalities, bringing expertise from various energy sectors.

This multinational and multidisciplinary approach allows DRI to combine global best practices with local market knowledge, ensuring success across different regulatory and business environments. By leveraging this diversity, the company strengthens its capacity to manage complex projects while adapting to regional energy policies and regulatory requirements.

Energy Market Trends and DRI’s Long-Term Vision

Each of DRI’s core markets presents unique opportunities and challenges. Italy is accelerating its transition to renewables, with ambitious solar and wind energy targets. However, grid congestion and permitting delays remain barriers to new developments.

Romania has become one of the most attractive renewable markets in Eastern Europe, thanks to government support and PPA agreements. Poland is heavily investing in energy storage and offshore wind, making it a strategic market for BESS expansion. Croatia, though smaller in scale, is increasing incentives for solar and wind projects, positioning itself as an emerging renewable energy hub.

At company states that each country has its own energy landscape, and DRI’s strategy is to navigate these differences while delivering large-scale renewable projects that align with national and EU-wide energy goals. The company remains focused on understanding and responding to the evolving policy and investment environment in each of its key markets.

Looking Ahead: Consolidating DRI as a Leading Independent Power Producer (IPP)

DRI’s long-term vision is to become a fully integrated Independent Power Producer (IPP), delivering renewable projects on time while leveraging its in-house expertise to identify new investment opportunities. Sources from the company explains that the company is committed to accelerating the energy transition by investing in renewables and energy storage, securing PPAs, and participating in auctions and government-backed schemes.

Beyond commercial success, DRI is deeply committed to sustainability and local engagement. The company collaborates with local communities to ensure that projects bring long-term socio-economic benefits, from job creation to infrastructure development. With its rapid expansion, strong investment in storage, and strategic approach to new markets, DRI is positioning itself as a driving force in Europe’s clean energy transformation.