From left to right: Edmondo Moscatelli, Mayor of San Pancrazio Salentino, Aris Spiropoulos, Managing Director Central Europe, METLEN, Maurizio Lancerin, Energy Management Director, Dolomiti Energia, Giuseppe Margheriti, Mayor of Erchie
A new milestone for energy storage developing and the energy transition in Italy
METLEN and Dolomiti Energia have inaugurated the new 25 MW/75 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Erchie, Apulia. Its commissioning marks the next milestone for a project first presented earlier this year, when the two companies signed a seven-year physical tolling agreement. Among the first arrangements of its kind in the Italian storage market, the agreement introduces an advanced commercial model that combines the long-term use of the infrastructure with the provision of critical flexibility to the electricity grid.
Developed and delivered entirely by METLEN, the project supports the further integration of renewable energy sources and contributes to strengthening the stability of Italy’s electricity system. As a stand-alone system, it provides grid flexibility and holds a Capacity Market contract with Terna (Italy’s transmission system operator), demonstrating in practice METLEN’s and Dolomiti Energia’s shared commitment to innovative, long-term energy solutions.
It is worth noting that the Erchie BESS is one of the first large-scale facilities to become operational in Italy, as well as the first storage project connected to the local substation.
The inauguration took place on 24 September in the presence of representatives of local government and institutional bodies, partners and executives from both companies. During the event, guests toured the facilities and were briefed on the project’s operation and its contribution to the flexibility and reliability of the electricity grid.
At the inauguration, Aris Spiropoulos, Managing Director Central Europe at METLEN, highlighted the pivotal role of storage in the next phase of renewable energy growth. As he noted, “the challenge is no longer limited to generating renewable energy; it also concerns ensuring that energy is available when households, businesses and local communities need it”. He also underlined the importance of the partnership with Dolomiti Energia and all the stakeholders who contributed to the delivery of the project, noting that “the energy transition requires collaboration, trust and a shared long-term vision”.
"The inauguration of the Erchie BESS marks the achievement of a project developed through close cooperation between METLEN and Dolomiti Energia," said Maurizio Lancerin, Energy Management Director at Dolomiti Energia. "Energy storage is becoming an increasingly important component of the electricity system, supporting its flexibility and operational management. This initiative reflects our commitment to developing long-term partnerships with businesses and operators looking for reliable and efficient energy management solutions and applying our expertise to combine energy market know-how with innovative infrastructure solutions that address the evolving needs of the energy sector."
METLEN’s presence in Italy
METLEN’s activities in Italy span more than 130 projects, with a total capacity exceeding 3 GW across 15 of the country’s 20 regions. In Apulia specifically, METLEN has established a significant presence through solar photovoltaic and energy storage projects totalling more than 0.5 GW, which are at various stages of development: approximately 0.1 GW in operation, 0.2 GW under construction and 0.3 GW under development.
With the Erchie BESS now fully operational, METLEN is translating its strong presence in Apulia into a tangible energy footprint and further strengthening its role in the Italian market. The project showcases the company’s model of combining technical expertise, innovative commercial partnerships and close engagement with local communities to accelerate the development of critical storage infrastructure in Italy and internationally.
Dolomiti Energia
Dolomiti Energia is an integrated industrial group with more than 1,700 employees and a long-standing tradition in renewable energy generation. Founded in Trentino, the Group now operates plants, serves customers, and runs retail outlets across Italy. It is also active in European energy markets, managing trading activities to optimize the value of its energy portfolio.
The Group is delivering an ambitious 2030 Plan, which includes more than €2 billion in investments to strengthen renewable generation capacity and energy infrastructure.
Growth is supported by a solid financial profile, underpinned by a BBB+ rating with a Stable Outlook from Fitch Ratings, a diversified industrial model, and exposure to regulated and semi-regulated activities that enhance business resilience and support long-term value creation.
A distinctive strength of Dolomiti Energia is its well-established expertise in energy flexibility management, helping ensure system stability while supporting the energy transition of businesses and local communities.
