Financing a landmark pan-European solar photovoltaic portfolio

European solar market: an outstanding growth

2024 will remain a significant year for solar energy, which has, for the first time, surpassed coal in electricity production in the European Union, contributing to raising the share of renewables to 47% – compared to 29% for fossil fuels*. This increase is driven by a growing consumer demand for a sustainable lifestyle, particularly among younger generations, as well as by changing lifestyles, such as remote work, which leads homeowners to seek long-term savings and energy autonomy. Although challenges such as high initial costs and competition from other energy sources hinder broader adoption, the growth of solar energy, observed since 2019 on the Old Continent, is widespread across all EU countries*.

A renewable company that shines

In this context of a thriving European solar market, French company Technique Solaire aims to mobilize €4Bn to reach 4 GWp** by 2030 - representing 12% of the French government's 48 GWc target at this same horizon. Founded in 2008, Technique Solaire is an independent renewable energy producer deploying solar photovoltaic and biogas infrastructures in France, Spain, The Netherlands and India, particularly in agriculture. It has achieved over 1 GWc of operational or under-construction photovoltaic capacity. To support its 4 GWp target and its development, it has completed several senior debt raises between 2022 and 2024, along with €200M in equity in 2023.

A historic debt raise for a landmark portfolio

In April 2025, Technique Solaire continues its momentum by executing a groundbreaking transaction: a unique debt raise in the company’s history, both in terms of amount and the power of the projects it finances. This financing of €302M in senior debt will fund the construction of a portfolio of 341 pan-European photovoltaic installations, with a total capacity of 240 MWp. The installations will consist of 185 MWp in France, spread across a large part of the metropolitan territory, 32 MWp in northern Spain, and 23 MWp in the Netherlands. These projects are representative of Technique Solaire’s photovoltaic expertise: agricultural hangars, climate shelters, aviaries, greenhouses, ground-mounted parks, and floating parks. Construction will begin in 2025 for the majority and will extend for the remainder between 2026 and 2027. This operation marks a crucial new step in Technique Solaire's ambition to reach 4 GWc of photovoltaic production capacity and also in the company's growth strategy, which aims for national and international development.

A successful challenge for Societe Generale

Societe Generale has supported Technique Solaire in executing this significant transaction, acting as Mandated Lead Arranger. This financing of renewable assets, with a Pan-European dimension, activated various financial support mechanisms. The success of this debt raise demonstrates Societe Generale's adaptation capacity and its ability to mobilise a wide range of expertise, including its sectoral financing and advisory expertise in the energy field], worldwide, to support its clients' most ambitious projects. The nature of the financed assets illustrates the Group's goal to being a leading partner in the renewable energy sector and its aspiration to support the energy transition.