Solar energy is increasingly driven by companies and projects that seek to make this energy source more accessible and developed. One of the companies that is most committed to solar energy is Dhamma EnergyThis group develops, builds and operates solar power plants in various regions worldwide.
In this article, we will review Dhamma Energy's history, its most important projects, its contributions to the renewable energy sector and its operational structure.
Beginnings of Dhamma Energy
Dhamma Energy was founded in 2008 by Olivier Crambade and Philippe Esposito, in a context where renewable energies were beginning to gain popularity in Europe, with a particular focus on solar energy. Since its creation, it has developed extensive experience in the photovoltaic sector.
Initial operations began in France and Spain, where Dhamma Energy built its first solar farms. In 2021, its operations in these two countries were acquired by Eni Gas e Luce, a subsidiary of Eni SpA. France remains one of the key countries for Dhamma Energy today, with a 120 MWp solar power plant already in operation.
In 2013, they expanded their reach to Mexico, establishing a subsidiary with which they have developed a 470 MWp plant and currently manage a 2 GWp portfolio in various stages of development. In addition, they have worked on projects in Africa, highlighting a 2 MWp photovoltaic park in Mauritius, launched in 2015.
To date, they have completed the development of 650 MW of photovoltaic plants, and their multidisciplinary team is made up of engineering and project management specialists, allowing them to cover all stages of development and construction.
Dhamma Energy's most notable projects
Throughout its history, Dhamma Energy has stood out for its ability to manage projects ranging from small installations to large solar parks, all with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Below are some of its most important projects:
- Athies-Samoussy solar park, France: One of the company's largest projects, inaugurated in 2021, this park has a capacity of 87.5 MWp, capable of generating 93 GWh per year, equivalent to the domestic consumption of 40,000 homes. It is made up of five photovoltaic plants and is one of the largest parks in the Hauts-de-France region.
- Photovoltaic plant in MexicoIn Mexico, Dhamma Energy has stood out for its 470 MWp plant, which stands as one of the largest solar projects in operation in the country. This plant is an example of its capacity to develop large-scale projects.
- Future projects in Mexico and France:The company currently manages a development portfolio of 2 GWp in Mexico and 4.7 GWp in France. In addition, they collaborate with various companies in the production of green hydrogen, thus promoting new forms of sustainable energy.
- Pollestres solar plant, France: A 3.3 MWp plant, partly financed through a crowdfunding campaign, which reinforces Dhamma Energy's commitment to sustainable projects that seek to involve the local community.
How Dhamma Energy Works
Dhamma Energy's business model covers the entire life cycle of solar projects. They start by identifying optimal land for the installation of solar plants, carry out technical and environmental feasibility studies, design the appropriate facility and manage the construction. They then also take care of the operation and maintenance of the plants, ensuring their performance over time.
One of the keys to Dhamma Energy’s success is its ability to partner with leading global companies, including suppliers of photovoltaic modules, inverters and energy storage systems, which allows them to have the best technologies available.
In addition, the company offers support to its partners and investors throughout the entire process, from initial conceptualization to full project implementation. Its multidisciplinary approach allows Dhamma Energy to tackle large-scale, end-to-end projects and ensure efficient execution.
Project structure and financing
One of the most important phases in the development of solar energy projects is financing. Dhamma Energy has the necessary experts to manage the financing of each of its projects, ensuring that solar plants are financed effectively, both through equity capital and long-term debt.
Their vast experience in different financial regulations and standards allows them to access financing through multilateral organizations and commercial banks. This flexible approach has allowed them to execute both medium and large-scale projects in different markets.
In addition, Dhamma Energy focuses on the commercialization of the solar energy produced, establishing agreements with local and regional markets, ensuring the viability and profitability of each of its projects in the long term.
Green hydrogen in Dhamma Energy's portfolio
One of the company's most recent developments is its participation in projects for the production and distribution of green hydrogen, an energy source that promises to be key in the energy transition. Dhamma Energy is part of the project HyDeal Ambition, whose aim is to create a European hydrogen distribution chain at competitive prices.
In Spain, the project involves Enagás, Naturgy and other European partners such as Gazel Energie, Snam and even Vinci Construction. Hydrogen will be produced through solar electrolysis, and it is estimated that the production will obtain prices very close to current fossil fuels, although with the advantage of being completely clean.
This approach reinforces Dhamma Energy’s commitment to the diversification of renewable energy sources and its ambition to lead the global transition towards a more sustainable future.
Recent and upcoming projects
In recent months, Dhamma Energy has continued its expansion. Investments such as the Cerrillares I project, a solar plant located between Jumilla and Yecla, with an investment of 30 million euros. This plant will generate approximately 97.5 GWh annually, enough to supply about 30,000 homes.
Additionally, they continue to work on expanding their operations in Mexico, where they plan to increase their solar production and continue projects related to green hydrogen. By 2030, their green hydrogen production estimates will reach 3.6 million tons, which positions Dhamma as a major player in this field globally.
As the world moves towards a global energy transition, Dhamma Energy remains a key player in growing the use of renewable energy, expanding its presence in new markets and developing innovative technologies in clean energy production.
The company's work in recent years demonstrates its ability to adapt and lead the renewable energy sector, which will undoubtedly allow it to continue to play a crucial role in achieving a carbon-free future.