PERTH-headquartered SSE Renewables is producing renewable energy in mainland Europe for the first time.
The milestone comes as the organisation achieves first power at its 28MW Chaintrix-Bierges and Vélyre Wind Farm in the Grand Est region of France.
Representing SSE’s first onshore wind farm in its southern European portfolio to enter construction, all turbines are now installed at the site – with commercial operations at the site expected in early 2025.
The latest project milestone comes as SSE Renewables announces that European asset management company, Greensolver, will provide day-to-day operation and maintenance services for the wind farm when it enters commercial operation early next year.
Greensolver is an experienced provider of asset management services and technical expertise, dedicated to wind, solar, and battery energy system storage (BESS) assets. The company already provides Asset Management services to over 5GW of renewable energy sites across Europe.
Ross Fenton, onshore director of asset management at SSE Renewables, said, “Right now, SSE Renewables is constructing over 1GW of new onshore renewables projects across our home and new international markets, including the Chaintrix-Bierges and Vélye Wind Farm which is on track to become our first operational wind farm in mainland Europe.
“Over the last year, we have undertaken a thorough and extensive procurement process to recruit in-country expertise to support our day-to-day operations in France. That’s why we’re delighted to announce we will be partnering with Greensolver Asset Management, a company with an outstanding European track record as well as an established and deep expertise in France, to manage Chaintrix-Bierges and Vélye Wind Farm. We’re now looking forward to building on this new relationship with Greensolver as we prepare for a smooth handover of the project from construction into commercial operation.”
Under the agreement, Greensolver will manage day-to-day wind farm activities including 24/7 operation and monitoring of the wind farm’s eight Siemens Gamesa SG 3.4-132 MW units, alongside reporting requirements, and maintenance management and optimisation. The scope will also include Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) compliance, as well as asset compliance.
Clement Iafrate, wind asset management team leader France at Greensolver, added, “We are proud to have been selected by SSE Renewables as their partner of choice for their first wind farm project in France, managing 28MW of assets. We are very excited to work alongside such a reputable industry player. As a leader in asset management in Europe with a track record of more than 6GW, Greensolver is very well-positioned to optimise the performance and value of the asset. We will bring our in-depth understanding of the French ecosystem to the service of SSE. This collaboration not only marks a significant milestone for Greensolver but also illustrates the growing importance of professional asset management in the renewable energy sector.”
