Apr 28 2008
First Reserve Corporation, the leading private equity firm specialising in the energy industry, has completed the acquisition of Gamesa Solar, the leading solar energy company in Spain, for a total consideration of euro 261 million. Together with the acquisition in Italy of Ener3, which has an established track record of designing and building photovoltaic power plants, First Reserve has created a European renewable energy group with the ability to deliver solar capacity of up to 400MW in Southern Europe over the next four years. The group expects that two thirds of this capacity will be delivered to customers, on a turnkey project basis, while the remaining capacity will be developed on its own account.
Paolo Pietrogrande, who will become CEO of the new group said: "Gamesa Solar has delivered 40MW of photovoltaic projects and with an additional 50MW to be completed within 2008 is a major solar developer and turn-key contractor. Its leading position in the Spanish market provides an excellent foundation to exploit the attractive solar development opportunities that exist in Southern Europe and the Mediterranean. Over the next four years we will invest euro 600 million into developing renewable energy generation assets. Our international team has relevant experience in development, construction and operation of wing, small hydro, biogas and solar based power generation. We are delighted that 20 senior managers will be part owners of the new group, reflecting their commitment to its success."
Mr. Pietrogrande previously held positions as CEO of Enel GreenPower, Chairman of Atmos Holding and a director of Trinergy Plc, and has an established track record of successfully leading renewable energy companies.
Antonio Cavalle, who will become Managing Director of Gamesa Solar and has led the company to its current leadership position in Spain, added: "Combining the leading Spanish solar energy business with an established Italian renewable developer and engineer paves the road to further commercial growth in the most promising European market."
"Between us we have over 500 man-years of renewable energy expertise led by people such as Carlo Zuccaro, one of the pioneers of grid connected photovoltaic projects, who will lead innovation and new technology development. We are a strong team and confident in our ability to build a successful and growing solar energy business."