Norwegian state-owned energy company Statkraft says it want to develop a “powerhouse in renewable energy” in Italy with solar energy firm Solar Utility SpA.
The two companies have signed an agreement to develop eight solar power projects totalling almost 20 MW in capacity in the Puglia region, and are now working on establishing an EPC contract for the projects.
The deal will allow Statkraft to grow quickly in the Italian market, which is attractive due to high levels of solar radiation and favourable renewable energy policies. Earlier this year the company placed an order with Siemens for the supply of its first solar power plant, a 3.3 MW facility in Italy.
“Italy is presently one of the most attractive solar energy markets in Europe,” said Olav Hetland, Senior Vice President of Statkraft’s Solar Power unit in July this year. The company is also looking at development opportunities in Spain and Southeast Europe in order to reach its goal of 75 MW solar power by 2012.
Solar Utility is a 50/50 joint venture between Pirelli Ambiente and Global Cleantech Capital.
