Enipeas Solar Project : Ameresco Sunel Energy and Lightsource bp launch major renewable initiative in Greece

In a landmark development for renewable energy in Greece, the Enipeas solar project has officially commenced, spearheaded by a partnership between Ameresco Sunel Energy SA and Lightsource bp. This ambitious project, one of the largest solar energy initiatives in Europe, underscores Greece’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and boosting economic resilience.

Enipeas Solar Project: A Game-Changer for Renewable Energy

The Enipeas solar project represents a monumental step forward in Europe’s renewable energy landscape. Ameresco Sunel Energy SA, a joint venture between Ameresco, Inc., a leader in cleantech integration, and Sunel Group, a prominent international solar PV Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor, is at the forefront of this initiative. Lightsource bp, renowned for its expertise in solar energy development, is leading the project, which aims to significantly bolster Greece’s renewable energy infrastructure.

Located in the regions of Larissa and Fthiotida, the Enipeas solar project has been co-funded by the European Union through the “NextGenerationEU” fund. The project is divided into two major clusters: the 400 megawatt-peak (MWp) Skopia cluster and the 160 MWp Kalithea cluster. The initiative involves the installation of nearly 970,000 photovoltaic modules, projected to generate approximately 0.90 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity annually. This output will power around 225,000 households and contribute to a reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 379 kilotonnes per year.

Economic and Environmental Benefits of the Enipeas Solar Project

The Enipeas solar project is poised to make a substantial impact on both the environment and the local economy. Natalia Paraskevopoulou, Head of Country for Greece at Lightsource bp, highlighted the project’s dual benefits. She stated that the Enipeas solar project would not only advance Greece’s decarbonisation goals but also stimulate local economic growth. The influx of workers and contractors is expected to drive demand for housing, groceries, and other local services, thereby generating additional income for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

Ameresco Sunel Energy SA, responsible for the EPC and Operations and Maintenance (O&M) aspects of the project, is dedicated to sustainable practices and community support. The company has engaged several local contractors and service providers, including civil contractors, community liaison officers, and environmental subcontractors. Additionally, Ameresco Sunel Energy SA has made significant contributions to the local community by providing accommodations in Skopia Village for project personnel and renting tractors for local use. Plans are in place to further boost local employment by hiring additional workers and subcontractors.

Commitment to Sustainable Energy and Local Development

George Sakellaris, CEO of Ameresco, expressed enthusiasm about the Enipeas solar project, noting the alignment of their efforts with the goals of delivering clean, secure energy while leveraging local talent. Konstantinos Zygouras, CEO of Sunel Group, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the project’s role in accelerating the transition to renewable energy in Greece. He underscored the commitment to high-quality EPC services and the long-term impact on the local community and environment.

The Enipeas solar project is a pivotal initiative that highlights Greece’s dedication to renewable energy and sustainable development. As Ameresco Sunel Energy SA and Lightsource bp collaborate to realise this ambitious project, they are setting a new benchmark for large-scale solar developments and reinforcing Greece’s position as a leader in clean energy.