Shikun and Binui Energy is about to begin delivering electricity to the grid from its Satu Mare photovoltaic plant. It is the company’s first renewables project in Romania and the surrounding region.
More than two and a half years after the start of construction, the Satu Mare solar power plant of 71 MW secured the authorization for the beginning of commercial operation, Profit.ro reported. Shikun and Binui Energy borrowed EUR 40.5 million in 2023 for the endeavor from Raiffeisen Bank International and Raiffeisen Bank Romania.
The company is part of Israel-based conglomerate Shikun and Binui, which is active in Romania’s real estate market. The photovoltaic facility in the Satu Mare county is its first investment in renewables in the country and the surrounding region. The contractor is CJR Renewables.
Project began in partnership with Monsson’s Muntmark
With the new permit, project firm Shikun and Binui Energy Satu Mare can register to begin selling electricity and start production. The PV plant spans 85 hectares. In 2021, news emerged that the company would invest up to EUR 50 million through its firm Camre Energy and in partnership with Emanuel Muntmark. He controls Monsson, one of the biggest developers of renewable energy and battery storage projects in Romania.
The same media outlet learned last year that the group intends to install over 300 MW in Buzoiești, in Argeș county. In June 2024, its subsidiary Green Energy Dynamic received technical approval for the Gold Wind onshore wind farm of 376 MW in Constanta county in eastern Romania. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2028.
Earlier there were reports that Shikun and Binui was developing wind and solar power projects in Iași county.
Second solar power plant is under construction in adjacent county
The second major investment of its energy branch is the Șimleu Silvaniei PV facility. The construction of the 101 MW system began more than a year ago. It is in Sălaj county, adjacent to Satu Mare.
Shikun and Binui Energy secured a EUR 49 million loan from Raiffeisen Group for the project. It also picked CJR Renewables as the contractor for Șimleu Silvaniei.
Solar power has been dominating renewable energy investments in Romania for several years, but the wind power segment seems to be rebounding strongly. Battery energy storage systems are also strengthening their role, especially as auxilary facilities for PV and wind parks, turning them into hybrid power plants.