Ensuring the long-term efficiency of solar PV projects will demand expertise beyond the capabilities of traditional engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms. This specialized skill set can be referred to as “value-added EPC,” highlighting the need for additional capabilities to optimize project performance over time.
This important insight stems from PV Tech Premium’s recent discussion with Tomaso Charlemont, who serves as the head of revamping and repowering for the EMEA region at BayWa r.e., a prominent German renewable energy company. Published today, the conversation highlights how revamping and repowering are interconnected processes designed to enhance long-term electricity generation. Revamping focuses on restoring an aging plant to its initial capacity, while repowering aims to expand upon the original asset’s capabilities.
Nevertheless, conducting revamping and repowering activities during the operational phase of solar projects, when they are connected to the grid and actively generating electricity, presents a significant challenge. This complexity arises from the need to replace outdated components with state-of-the-art technologies, adding a layer of intricacy to the process.
Charlemont emphasized the continuous evolution of the industry, stating, “Revamping and repowering represent a dynamic sector that undergoes constant change year by year. It’s crucial to recognize that this is a sophisticated construction business, not a simple solution where a few components are swapped out for a quick fix.”
“We function as an EPC, handling engineering, procurement, contracting, and construction, but with the additional challenge of working within the framework of an existing plant,” explained Charlemont. “This represents a new discipline that introduces a layer of complexity to the process.”
Charlemont also highlighted the additional complexity introduced by the diverse policy frameworks in the various regions where BayWa r.e. is active, such as Germany and France. These differing regulations pose challenges for companies looking to participate in value-added EPC projects.
Nevertheless, Charlemont indicated that the significant value associated with upgrading existing solar projects and leveraging assets like land and grid connections is expected to generate a substantial surge of interest in revamping and repowering, despite the challenges involved.
Charlemont explained, “Plants that are not revamped will eventually require dismantling at the end of their intended lifespan. What will remain is a plot of land with an existing building permit and grid connection in place.” He further elaborated, “This scenario will catalyze a new wave of momentum, leading to significant interest in repowering—essentially, constructing a new plant in a location where one existed before.”
