The transition to an Independent Power Producer (IPP) model marks a new chapter in Renera Energy’s history. Founded in 2006 in Switzerland as a renewable energy consultancy, the company is now positioning itself as a key player in the development of solar and energy storage projects across Europe.

Currently, Renera Energy boasts a portfolio of 4.5 GW of solar energy and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) across different European countries. This portfolio includes:

• 1 GW from 50 large-scale photovoltaic plants and 1.5 GW of BESS in Italy
• 1.5 GW from 20 BESS projects in Germany
• 500 MW in Romania, including 300 MW of solar PV and 200 MW of energy storage

According to Lars Konersmann, Head of Solar Development, Co-owner, and Member of the Executive Board at Renera Energy, the company has more than 170 employees across its offices in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, and Romania, and is committed to establishing itself as an IPP.

“We will soon begin our transformation into an Independent Power Producer (IPP) and aim to expand across the value chain in consolidating markets,” Konersmann stated in an interview with Strategic Energy Europe.

A Challenging 2024 and the Roadmap for 2025

2024 has been marked by significant shifts in renewable energy markets. According to Renera Energy’s executive, the combination of falling energy prices and regulatory changes has created a complex environment.

“With the drop in energy prices and numerous regulatory changes, particularly in Italy, the positive momentum for renewables has slowed. However, the reduction in interest rates has helped stabilize the market. This dynamic has made 2024 a challenging year,” explains Konersmann.

Looking ahead to 2025, the company’s goal is to expand its portfolio with high-quality projects and connect new plants to the grid, in addition to initiating its transformation into an IPP.

In the long term, Renera Energy plans to double its project pipeline and strengthen its presence in consolidating markets.

Market Analysis: Challenges and Opportunities

Renera Energy currently operates in Switzerland (its home country and headquarters), Italy, Germany, and Romania, with a primary focus on ground-mounted solar PV and BESS projects. However, the company is also developing floating solar plants, biogas production facilities, and biogas commercialization across Europe, mainly for Swiss and German clients, according to Konersmann.

The executive highlights two major challenges in the markets where Renera operates: grid capacity and regulatory uncertainty.

“Grid congestion is a crucial factor in the feasibility of new projects. That’s why we adopt a highly rigorous and sophisticated site selection approach,” he explains in an interview with the portal.

On the regulatory side, the constant evolution of energy policies requires strategic planning. “We anticipate and manage regulatory changes through lobbying activities and political networks,” Konersmann adds.

Despite these challenges, he believes the potential remains high. The demand for BESS solutions is growing, and emerging technologies such as floating solar energy offer new investment opportunities.

The Future of Renera Energy in the Energy Transition

With a strong presence across Europe, Renera Energy is positioning itself as a key developer in the continent’s energy transition.

“The renewable energy sector is becoming increasingly demanding, and investors are more selective. However, our team has the experience and strategy needed to adapt and continue growing,” concludes Konersmann.

By embracing the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model, Renera Energy is not only solidifying its role in the renewable sector but also making a decisive step towards a sustainable energy future.