ContourGlobal has secured a 446-MWp solar plant portfolio from Qcells, strengthening its foothold in the U.S. renewable energy sector. The acquisition includes a 324-MWp facility in Colorado and a 122-MWp project in Virginia, both connected to major grid networks.
Acquisition Strengthens ContourGlobal’s U.S. Market Position
The Colorado project is being developed in two phases. The first phase, a 185-MWp segment, is under construction. It is expected to become operational in the first half of 2025. The second phase will add 139 MWp by 2026. The solar plant will supply electricity to Platte River Power Authority through a long-term power purchase agreement.
The Virginia solar plant is expected to begin construction in 2026. Commercial operations should commence in 2027. A 20-year power purchase agreement with an investment-grade utility will support the project. Both projects will produce over 845 GWh annually. This energy output is enough to power about 80,000 households.
IP Kim, Qcells GES President said: “We are proud to support ContourGlobal’s US expansion. This transaction showcases Qcells’ differentiated capabilities as a ‘total energy solutions provider’ to bring projects from development into operations. We are excited to explore other opportunities where Qcells’ full suite of capabilities can deliver value to partners like ContourGlobal.”
Qcells’ Role in Solar Plant Development
Qcells, a South Korea’s Hanwha Group subsidiary, will manufacture the solar panels for both projects. It will also oversee development, engineering, procurement and construction. The company will provide operation and maintenance services after completion. The solar panels will be produced at Qcells' factories in Georgia.
This deal follows ContourGlobal’s recent acquisition of over 1 GW of solar PV and battery energy storage system (BESS) projects in South Carolina and Arizona.
Antonio Cammisecra, ContourGlobal CEO, stated: “This transaction allows us to maintain momentum in our U.S. renewable growth, nearing 1.2 GW of solar PV capacity complemented with additional 0.3 GW of BESS capacity, in construction or late development. It also meaningfully accelerates the start of our commercial operations to the first half of this year.”
The acquisition enhances ContourGlobal’s footprint in key U.S. electricity markets. The company now has a presence in the WECC and PJM interconnection zones. These regions are experiencing increased demand for renewable energy as thermal power capacity declines.
Future Growth and Renewable Energy Demand
ContourGlobal's total renewable capacity in the U.S. now stands at approximately 1.5 GW. This includes 1.2 GW of solar PV and 0.3 GW of BESS. The company also operates a 1.3 GW thermal portfolio across four states.
Qcells remains a key player in the U.S. solar manufacturing sector. The company operates one of the largest solar panel production facilities in the Western Hemisphere. Since 2019, its U.S. manufacturing capacity has been 5.1 GW. This capacity is expected to reach 8.4 GW in the coming years.
The agreement ensures that Qcells will continue to play a crucial role in the development of these solar plants. The company will supply solar panels and key equipment from its Georgia facilities. This move aligns with its strategy of integrating manufacturing and project development.
Kim Ik-pyo, head of Hanwha Q CELLS Green Energy Solutions Division, emphasized: "This project sale demonstrates that Hanwha Q CELLS' business execution capabilities as a total energy solutions provider are on a stable trajectory. We will provide differentiated solutions from manufacturing to power projects based on the Solar Hub, North America's largest solar manufacturing base."
ContourGlobal’s expansion comes at a time of strong demand for renewable energy in the U.S. Policymakers and corporations are setting carbon reduction targets. The retirement of older thermal plants is also creating opportunities for solar and battery storage projects.
The company’s recent acquisitions position it as a major player in the U.S. renewable energy sector. With growing solar plant capacity and integrated partnerships, ContourGlobal is set for continued expansion. It supports national energy transition goals and delivers sustainable power to thousands of households.