METLEN and Dolomiti Energia inaugurated in Erchie, Apulia, the new battery energy storage system (BESS), with a capacity of 25 MW and storage capacity of 75 MWh.
The project was put into operation, marking another important milestone in the cooperation between the two companies, following the signing, at the beginning of the year, of a seven-year physical tolling agreement. As one of the first agreements of this type in the Italian storage market, it introduces an advanced commercial model that combines the long-term utilization of the infrastructure with the provision of critical flexibility to the power grid.
As noted in the relevant announcement, the project, which was developed and implemented entirely by METLΕN, supports the further penetration of Renewable Energy Sources and strengthens the stability of the Italian power system. As a standalone system, it provides flexibility to the grid and has a Capacity Market contract with Terna (Italy's Energy Operator), putting into practice the shared commitment of METLEN and Dolomiti Energia to innovative and long-term energy solutions.
It is worth noting that the Erchie BESS is one of the first large-scale facilities to be put into operation in Italy, as well as the first storage project connected to the area's substation.
The inauguration took place on September 24, in the presence of representatives of local government and institutional bodies, partners, and executives of the two companies. During the event, guests were given a tour of the facilities and informed about the operation of the project and its contribution to the flexibility and reliability of the power grid.
As part of the inauguration, Aris Spyropoulos, Managing Director Central Europe of METLEN, highlighted the decisive role of storage in the next stage of development of Renewable Energy Sources.
As he emphasized, "the challenge is no longer limited to the production of clean energy; it also concerns ensuring that energy is available when households, businesses, and local communities need it." At the same time, he underlined the importance of cooperation with Dolomiti Energia and with all the parties that contributed to the implementation of the project, noting that "the energy transition requires cooperation, trust, and a shared long-term vision".
"The inauguration of the Erchie BESS marks the completion of a project developed through the close cooperation of METLEN and Dolomiti Energia," said Maurizio Lancerin, Energy Management Director of Dolomiti Energia. "Energy storage is becoming an increasingly important element of the power system, supporting its flexibility and operational management.
This initiative reflects our commitment to developing long-term partnerships with businesses and institutions seeking reliable and efficient energy management solutions, leveraging our expertise so as to combine knowledge of the energy market with innovative infrastructure solutions that respond to the evolving needs of the energy sector".
METLEN's presence in Italy
METLEN's activity in Italy extends to more than 130 projects, with a total capacity of over 3 GW, in 15 of the country's 20 regions. In Apulia in particular, METLΕN has developed a significant presence through photovoltaic and energy storage projects with a total capacity of over 0.5 GW, which are at different stages of development: approximately 0.1 GW in operation, 0.2 GW under construction, and 0.3 GW under development.
With the Erchie BESS in full operation, METLEN is turning its strong presence in Apulia into a tangible energy footprint and further strengthening its role in the Italian market. The project highlights the model through which the company combines expertise, innovative commercial partnerships, and close ties with local communities, accelerating the development of critical storage infrastructure in Italy and internationally.