PPC Group and METLEN Energy & Metals have entered into a joint venture (JV) agreement to develop battery energy storage system (BESS) projects across Romania, Bulgaria and Italy. The agreement provides for the creation of a JV company in which both companies will hold an equal 50 per cent stake. The collaboration will focus on the development, construction and operation of a BESS portfolio with a total capacity of up to 1,500 MW/3,000 MWh.
Around 1,000 MW of the planned capacity is expected to be implemented within the next 12 months. The BESS projects will utilise two-hour liquid-cooled battery systems based on lithium iron phosphate technology. PPC Group will support project execution and energy management activities across the three countries where it already maintains an operational presence. Additionally, METLEN Energy & Metals will undertake the construction of the projects using its experience in energy infrastructure development.
In January 2026, METLEN and the Tsakos Group entered into a strategic partnership to jointly develop, construct, operate, and commercially manage a large hybrid power generation project in Greece. The project will be implemented through a special purpose vehicle structured as a JV, with the Tsakos Group holding a 60 per cent stake and METLEN holding 40 per cent.
REGlobal’s Views: Italy, Bulgaria and Romania are very attractive BESS markets currently, with significant opportunity for deployment. Italy has emerged as one of the top BESS markets in Europe owing to the presence of competitive capacity market and the right auction mechanisms. Meanwhile, Bulgaria is now emerging as a hotspot for BESS deployment owing to not just renewables expansion but capex support programs. Finally, Romania is witnessing an increase in BESS uptake owing to public support and newly introduced support programs.