Slovenia is set to bolster its renewable energy landscape through the approval of three significant solar projects, collectively expected to contribute over 39 megawatts (MW) to the national grid by early 2028. This initiative aligns with the country’s Development Program Plan for 2026–2029 and represents a strategic move towards enhancing solar capacity, with all projects being executed by entities under the HSE group. The total investment for these projects surpasses €45 million, which includes more than €18 million sourced from the EU’s Modernization Fund.
The most substantial of these initiatives is the Zlatolicje–Formin solar plant, spearheaded by DEM. This project will see an expansion from an existing 2.5 MW installation to nearly 22 MW, with an annual output projected at over 24,000 megawatt-hours (MWh). The project will utilize more than 37,000 solar panels situated across the Zlatolicje and Formin hydropower plants along the Drava river. The overall investment for this solar plant stands at €21.7 million, primarily financed by private investors, supplemented by EU funding. Completion is anticipated in February 2028, with commercial operations slated to commence in March.
In addition to this flagship project, SENG is planning an expansion at Kanalski Vrh, where solar generation capacity will increase from 2.9 MW to 7.3 MW. This facility will complement existing hydropower assets like the Avce pump-storage plant and the Soca river cascade, aiming for an output exceeding 8,000 MWh annually. The estimated investment for this project is around €14 million, which includes approximately €5.9 million from the Modernization Fund. While financing is expected to conclude by late 2027, the timeline for initiating electricity generation remains unconfirmed.
The third initiative involves constructing a new 10 MW solar plant on the closed Pobrezje landfill in Maribor, also managed by DEM. This facility aims to directly supply electricity to Slovenia’s national grid and has a projected investment of €9.6 million, with nearly €4 million coming from EU support. Completion of this project is targeted for the end of 2027.
Together, these developments represent a significant advancement in Slovenia’s renewable energy strategy, showcasing innovative approaches that leverage existing infrastructure while enhancing energy production capabilities across degraded lands.
