French renewable energy developer Neoen has begun construction on three solar plants in Italy with a total capacity of 24.7MW.  

The three plants are Neoen's first solar projects in the country. Two are located in Lombardy and one in Marche.  

The two projects in Lombardy have capacities of 8MW and 7.6MW, and the plant in Marche will generate 9.1MW.  

Neoen will maintain full ownership of the assets once operational. 

Intec Energy Solutions has secured a turnkey construction contract for the facilities. 

Set for commissioning in early 2025, the solar plants will produce clean energy for 9,000 Italian households while offsetting 37,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually.  

The company aims to secure power purchase agreements for a substantial portion of the electricity generated, with the balance being sold on the Italian electricity market. 

The projects align with Italy's 2030 target to generate 40% of its electricity from renewable sources.  

Neoen has been present in the Italian market since 2021 and has been developing a portfolio of solar and storage projects.  

It leverages government-designated areas for accelerated project development, with the potential to progress from planning to construction in 12–16 months. 

Neoen chairman and CEO Xavier Barbaro stated: “Our Italian office opened its doors in December 2021 and these projects were developed in under 24 months, a record time. I congratulate the team for such a fast execution.  

“The Neoen way – which is based on the development of our own projects to own and operate our assets in the long term – distinguishes us from our competitors. We are convinced that this model will bring us as much success in Italy as it has in all the countries where we operate.” 

In September 2023, the company won solar tenders in France totalling 238.5MW under the government’s tender calls.  

These projects were awarded under two categories: "canopies and buildings" and "large-scale ground-mounted".