X-Elio has struck a deal to sell its 50MW Castelvetrano solar plant in Sicily to Italian renewables company PLT Energia. The transaction underscores a strategic shift in the Italian renewable energy market, with both companies fortifying their positions and accelerating the country’s clean energy transition.
The Castelvetrano solar project, estimated to generate 92GWh of clean energy annually, marks a significant milestone for both parties. For X-Elio, it represents the culmination of a project that aligns with its long-term commitment to Italy’s renewable energy sector. “We are proud to close this agreement with PLT Energia, which culminates the effort and the relationship between two leading renewable companies,” said Nicholas Pentreath, X-Elio’s deputy chief executive. Gianfranco Memoli, X-Elio’s country manager in Italy, added, “This milestone recognises X-Elio’s long-term commitment to the development of top-tier renewable projects in this country.”
For PLT Energia, the acquisition is a step forward in its growth strategy. “This transaction represents a further step in PLT Energia’s growth strategy, aimed at consolidating an integrated platform in the renewable energy market on a national scale,” stated Stefano Marulli, PLT Energia’s chief executive.
The deal comes as Italy’s renewable energy sector gains momentum. X-Elio has already brought 146MW of solar capacity into operation in Italy and is currently building projects worth 116MW, expected to come online within the next 12 months. The company also manages a substantial pipeline of 1.1GW in solar projects and 1.8GW in battery energy storage systems (BESS) at various stages of development.
PLT Energia, meanwhile, expects to reach an installed capacity of 365MW by the end of 2025, with an additional 110MW currently in an advanced stage of construction. The company’s development pipeline stands at approximately 3.4GW, with 600MW already authorised.
This transaction could signal a trend of consolidation in Italy’s renewable energy market, as companies seek to strengthen their portfolios and accelerate the country’s energy transition. As the sector evolves, such strategic moves may become more common, shaping the future of Italy’s clean energy landscape. The deal also highlights the growing importance of battery energy storage systems, which are crucial for integrating renewable energy into the grid and ensuring a stable energy supply. As the sector continues to mature, the role of energy storage is likely to become even more prominent.