Zelestra has secured bilateral agreements under Italy’s Energy Release 2.0 mechanism covering a total volume of 1.5 TWh, strengthening its role as a renewable energy partner to the country’s industrial sector while advancing solar energy capacity growth. The contracts include multiple industrial counterparties, notably a long-term agreement with Burgo Group S.p.A., one of Europe’s leading producers of graphic and specialty papers, accounting for a total supply of 950 GWh. These arrangements are structured to provide industrial clients with access to renewable electricity under predictable and stable conditions, while contributing to the broader expansion of solar energy capacity in Italy.
The agreement enables Burgo Group to reduce its exposure to fluctuations in wholesale power markets while supporting the decarbonization of its industrial operations. Through Energy Release 2.0, renewable generation is directly linked with industrial demand, creating a framework that facilitates new project development and strengthens long-term planning. This structure plays a central role in scaling solar energy capacity by offering developers improved revenue visibility and giving energy-intensive industries more competitive energy solutions. The initiative, promoted by Gestore dei Servizi Energetici, is designed to accelerate renewable deployment by aligning consumption with the creation of new generation assets.
Commenting on the development, CEO of Zelestra Italy Eliano Russo said: “Energy Release 2.0 provides a concrete bridge between renewable deployment and industrial competitiveness. Our agreement with Burgo Group demonstrates how long-term, structured energy solutions can create value for industrial customers while enabling the development of new clean capacity in Italy.” The mechanism is expected to play a key role in expanding solar energy capacity over the coming years, supporting both industrial demand and national energy transition objectives.
Zelestra operates in Italy through an integrated platform that spans the development, construction, and operation of large-scale renewable energy projects. The company continues to broaden its multi-technology portfolio, with a focus on solar and battery storage solutions. As part of its growth strategy in one of its fastest expanding markets, Zelestra aims to achieve nearly 3 GW of total capacity in Italy by the end of 2026. By combining development expertise with structured offtake agreements, the company is accelerating the deployment of renewable projects while reinforcing long-term growth in solar energy capacity.
