Greek energy groups PPC and Metlen expect to commission the first 300 MW of their joint battery-storage portfolio in the first quarter of 2027, with the initial projects located in Bulgaria and Romania.
The facilities will mark the first operational phase of a wider investment program targeting Southeast Europe and Italy, as the two companies seek to expand their presence in the region’s rapidly developing energy-storage market.
Under the partnership, PPC and Metlen ultimately aim to develop up to 1,500 MW of battery capacity, supported by around 3,000 MWh of storage. The portfolio will therefore have an average duration of approximately two hours.
The partnership operates on a 50:50 basis, with Metlen responsible for project development and construction, while PPC will oversee commercial operations through its regional power-trading business. Revenues generated by the projects will be shared equally between the two companies.
The battery systems will use liquid-cooled lithium iron phosphate (LFP) technology, which is increasingly being deployed for large-scale energy-storage projects due to its combination of safety, durability and suitability for frequent cycling.
The facilities will play a broader role than simply supporting renewable-energy integration. They will be able to charge electricity during lower-priced periods and discharge it when prices are higher, allowing the projects to capture market spreads while also providing grid balancing and other flexibility services.
This business model is becoming increasingly important across Southeast Europe as solar and wind capacity continues to grow. Higher renewable generation during certain hours is creating larger price differences with periods of evening demand and tighter supply, increasing the value of flexible storage capacity.
The joint venture was established in March with an initial target of developing 1,000 MW during its first year. Development is progressing in stages, with the first 300 MW now expected to enter operation in early 2027.
PPC and Metlen are also pursuing separate investments in the Greek storage market. Metlen has inaugurated a standalone battery-storage facility at Nea Karyes near Larissa through a separate partnership with Karatzis Group, while PPC plans to commission 150 MW of battery projects in Western Macedonia.
The regional partnership highlights the growing role of battery storage as more than supporting infrastructure for renewable generation. The projects are being developed as commercial electricity-market assets capable of capturing price differences, balancing the grid and providing flexibility across several interconnected Southeast European markets.
