As the energy transition accelerates across Europe, Greece is emerging as a key player in the shift to renewable energy. In a recent special feature published by Energypress.gr, our CEO, Konstantinos Zygouras, shared his insights on the progress made, the challenges ahead, and SUNEL Group’s role in supporting Greece’s national energy and climate goals.
The article was part of a curated series that included views from leading renewable energy executives in Greece, reflecting on the country’s strategy toward 2030. Mr. Zygouras discusses the rise of solar PV, the impact of landmark projects such as Delfini and Enipeas, and SUNEL Group’s broader vision for sustainability, innovation, and local community empowerment.
We would like to thank Energypress.gr for featuring this contribution and for fostering dialogue on the future of clean energy in Greece.
Read the full article below (English version):
Greece’s Path to a More Sustainable Future: Vision, Actions, and Collective Responsibility
As we approach 2030, the transition to more sustainable forms of energy emerges as a fundamental priority to enhance resilience and safeguard national energy systems. The uncertain geopolitical landscape, reliance on fossil fuels, rising energy costs, and ever-changing economic conditions intensify the need for innovative and efficient solutions.
In Greece, harnessing renewable energy sources serves as a key pillar of the national strategy to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy independence. The share of renewables in the energy mix surpassed 50% as early as 2023, with the goal of reaching 28 GW by 2030, up from 14 GW in 2022.
The solar PV sector plays a pivotal role in this journey. After a period of stagnation up to 2018, it entered a trajectory of rapid growth. As part of this development, during the same period, SUNEL Group relocated its headquarters to Greece and established its Greek subsidiary, investing in the domestic market and leveraging the available specialized workforce.
Today, Greece stands as Europe’s Solar PV leader. According to an analysis by Ember, in 2023, the country recorded the highest share of solar energy in electricity generation at 19%, surpassing Hungary (18%) and Spain (17%) and significantly exceeding the EU average of 9.1%. This achievement lays a strong foundation for achieving the targets set out in the National Energy and Climate Plan, which envisions 13.5 GW of installed solar capacity by 2030, with 8.5 GW expected by 2025. Current developments indicate that Greece’s installed solar capacity is likely to far exceed this target by 2030.
These targets are supported by the implementation of large-scale solar projects, where SUNEL Group has played a significant role both in Greece and internationally. SUNEL Group has designed, completed, and has under construction more than 800 solar projects across four continents, with a total capacity exceeding 3,500 MWp, of which more than 1,000 MWp are in Greece.
Undoubtedly, 2024 was a landmark year for our company. Ameresco SUNEL Group, our joint venture with the NYSE-listed Ameresco Inc., successfully completed the iconic “Delfini” project for Cero Generation, an independent power producer (IPP) based in London. This was the first investment in Greece to combine selling generated electricity to an independent supplier through a power purchase agreement (PPA) and financing from the Recovery Fund. Fully operational since September 2024, “Delfini” produces 157 GWh annually, enough to power 58,140 households while reducing CO2 emissions by 65,300 tons.
Furthermore, we have commenced construction of the “Enipeas” project for Lightsource bp in the Larissa region. With a capacity of 560 MWp, it stands among the largest solar PV parks in Europe.
The transition to renewable energy is a holistic challenge that extends beyond technological issues, requiring collaboration among investors, developers, regulators, and local communities. SUNEL Group focuses on five key pillars to support Greece’s energy transition and create a positive societal impact:
- Technological Innovation: We continuously invest in new technologies to ensure cutting-edge, energy-efficient projects.
- Flexibility: Our ability to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and project-specific requirements enables us to respond effectively to challenges.
- International Experience: Our global presence in markets with diverse regulatory frameworks allows us to deliver customized, high-quality solutions.
- Solution Optimization: By constantly improving systems and processes, we deliver projects with maximum energy efficiency and reduced operating and maintenance costs, maximizing value for our clients.
- Support for Local Communities and Social Responsibility: We focus on empowering local communities through educational programs and other initiatives. The recent renaming of the Ano Liosia Olympic Center to SUNEL Arena reflects our commitment to sustainable development and creating a positive impact on local societies. Our goal is to transform SUNEL Arena into a multipurpose destination offering unique experiences for the entire family, with sports and cultural activities in a safe and welcoming environment.
As the energy landscape is being reshaped, Greece has already gained significant ground. The year 2025 is expected to be pivotal, paving the way for new opportunities, more sustainable practices, and a future where the energy transition will serve as a driving force for economic prosperity and sustainable development, always with a focus on environmental protection and sustainability.
In this dynamic journey, SUNEL Group is inspired and guided by the commitment: “With vision, action, and responsibility, we create a more sustainable future for the future generations.” I firmly believe that as we approach 2030, these principles must become a shared reference point for governments, institutions, and businesses striving to see Greece lead the energy transition.
Similarly, Greece’s workforce demonstrates its immense potential every day. Through dedication, expertise, and an innovative mindset, Greek professionals in the sector lay the groundwork for the success of this transition. It is our collective responsibility, through cooperation and joint effort, to showcase their capabilities and position Greece as a leader on the energy map of the future.