PPC Group has made significant strides in renewable energy by transforming former lignite mining regions in Amyntaio and Ptolemaida into a substantial solar energy hub. This initiative is part of Greece’s broader shift towards sustainable energy sources, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The newly developed solar portfolio boasts an impressive total installed capacity of 2,130 MW, projected to generate approximately 3,150 GWh of electricity annually. This output accounts for nearly 6% of Greece’s overall electricity consumption and is sufficient to power around 750,000 households. Moreover, the project is anticipated to contribute to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by over 1.5 million tons each year, marking a considerable environmental achievement.
In addition to solar generation, PPC is enhancing its energy storage capabilities to facilitate the integration of renewable resources into the national grid. Through its subsidiary PPC Renewables, the company has completed two battery energy storage systems located in Ptolemaida and Meliti, with plans for a third system currently under construction in Amyntaio. Furthermore, PPC has received approvals for two pump-storage projects slated for Kardia and South Field, which will further bolster its storage infrastructure.
Among the key assets in this solar initiative are the 550 MW Phoebe solar plant near Pontokomi, expected to yield around 880 GWh annually, and the 940 MW Amyntaio solar complex developed in collaboration with RWE across various sites including Rodonas, Filotas, Lakkia, and Perdikkas. The Amyntaio complex alone is projected to generate approximately 1,500 GWh per year. Other notable projects include the 200 MW Helios Velos 1 plant near Ptolemaida, as well as the Exochi 7 and Akrini solar plants, each with a capacity of 80 MW, alongside ten smaller installations on previously mined land.
PPC underscores the necessity for large-scale storage systems to effectively manage the increasing renewable capacity. The existing battery facilities in Western Macedonia have a combined capacity of 98 MW and 196 MWh. The upcoming project near Amyntaio will contribute an additional 50 MW and 200 MWh of storage capacity, enabling power supply for up to four hours during peak demand periods.
Simultaneously, PPC is pursuing a local participation initiative aligned with the Western Macedonia transition plan. Announced in April 2025, this initiative includes a €5 million bond issue launched on March 13, targeting residents of Kozani and Florina. These bonds allow local communities to directly invest in their region’s energy transition. Subscriptions will remain open until April 17, with each bond priced at €100, permitting investments ranging from five to 250 bonds. PPC indicates that these instruments will provide an annual return of 8% and potential capital growth of up to 40% before tax over five years, aiming to actively involve local stakeholders in the economic transformation of their communities.
