RWE Expands French Solar Portfolio with New Acquisitions
RWE has acquired two solar photovoltaic (PV) projects in France from RES, strengthening its renewable energy footprint in the country. With a combined capacity of around 30 megawatts, the projects are located in Dordogne and Maine-et-Loire.
Project Developments in Dordogne and Maine-et-Loire
The larger of the two is a 20.3-megawatt solar plant being developed on a former landfill site in La Sauvetat-du-Dropt, Dordogne. This approach puts otherwise unused land to productive use while contributing to clean energy generation. The second project is a 9.3-megawatt solar plant in Villevêque, Maine-et-Loire. It has secured a 20-year feed-in tariff contract through the French Energy Regulatory Commission’s (CRE) competitive tender process, ensuring its long-term viability.
RWE’s Commitment to Renewable Energy Growth in France
As one of the world’s leading renewable energy companies, RWE continues to expand its portfolio with plans to develop over 5 gigawatts of renewable energy projects in France. This strategy includes technologies like wind, solar, and battery storage, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainable and innovative energy solutions.
Since entering the French market in 2023, RWE has rapidly increased its footprint. The acquisition of these two solar PV projects builds on the company’s existing 750 megawatts of onshore wind and solar capacity already under development or in operation. This move highlights RWE’s strategic focus on expanding its assets and presence in France, a key market for renewable energy.
Driving France’s Solar Energy Market Forward
The France photovoltaic market is one of Europe’s largest, with significant potential for growth. The country has set ambitious targets to expand its renewable capacity, aiming for 40 gigawatts of solar capacity by 2023 and 100 gigawatts by 2030. As of 2024, France’s solar energy capacity reached 23.7 GW, demonstrating its rapid progress in the sector.
The French government’s support for renewables through policies such as feed-in tariffs and competitive tenders has made the country an attractive destination for investment. RWE’s acquisition of these projects is a testament to the opportunities available in the French solar market.
The acquisition of the La Sauvetat-du-Dropt and VillevĂŞque solar projects marks a significant step in RWE’s expansion in France. Given the nation’s strong support for renewable energy and ambitious solar capacity goals, the company is well-positioned to play a key role in the country’s transition to clean energy.
