Ameresco SUNEL Energy, a collaboration between Ameresco and SUNEL Group, has secured contracts valued at €303.4 million ($345.7 million) for the engineering, procurement, and construction of three solar parks in southwestern Romania. These projects, named Rovinari, Tismana 1, and Tismana 2, have a combined capacity of 466MWp and are developed through an equal partnership between OMV Petrom and CE Oltenia.

The solar parks will feature over 757,000 fixed-tilt solar modules, optimised for energy capture and efficiency.

Located in Gorj and Dolj counties on land owned by CE Oltenia, the solar parks will feature over 757,000 fixed-tilt solar modules designed for optimal energy efficiency. Construction is set to be completed within 18 months, with Ameresco SUNEL overseeing design, procurement, construction, commissioning, operation, and maintenance. Once operational, the projects are expected to reduce CO? emissions by approximately 734,789 tonnes annually, supporting Romania’s climate goals and its plan to phase out coal-based power by 2032.

Frank Neel, OMV Petrom executive board member for gas and power, stated: “The signing of these contracts is a firm step in strengthening our position in the renewable power sector. Through our Strategy 2030, we aim to be a key player in Romania’s energy transition, with the ambitious target of developing 2.5GW of capacity, including partnerships, from renewable sources – wind and solar.”

Additionally, OMV Petrom and CE Oltenia are developing a fourth solar project with a 90MW capacity, with its EPC contract awarded to Girisim Elektrik, a Turkish company. The total investment for these four projects amounts to €400 million, with 70% funded by the European Union’s Modernisation Fund.

In a separate initiative, Ameresco SUNEL Energy is contributing to the 560MWp ENIPEAS solar project in Greece, developed by Lightsource bp. Located in Larissa and Fthiotida, construction began in July 2024 and is expected to be completed by summer 2026. This project is supported by the EU’s NextGenerationEU fund.

Konstantinos Zygouras, vice president of Ameresco SUNEL Energy, said: “Romania’s vast solar potential, combined with strategic investments in renewable energy, will position the country as a leader in Europe’s clean energy transition. We are proud to partner with OMV Petrom CEO to drive this ambitious project forward, fostering economic growth while contributing to a more sustainable future.”

These initiatives reflect Romania and Greece’s commitment to expanding renewable energy infrastructure, enhancing energy security, and meeting regional sustainability objectives.