Italy’s clean energy future is receiving a powerful push as Quercus and Elionia have secured $88.46 million in project finance from a consortium of three leading banks to construct three biomethane plants in northern Italy. Structured as a long-term, project-financed deal, the funding includes a 50% guarantee from SACE, underscoring the Italian government’s commitment to scaling renewable energy technologies. This move signals not only a strategic investment in Italy’s decarbonization but also the launch of a broader biomethane infrastructure buildout.

Strategic Financing Backed by Top-Tier Institutions
The deal is backed by a robust financial syndicate comprising BNP Paribas, Banco BPM, and Mediocredito Centrale, with SACE providing critical risk mitigation through its 50% guarantee. The structure ensures stability and credibility for this first phase of biomethane development. Legal advisory came from Legance for the sponsors and Ashurst for the banks, while Rothschild & Co. and Fichtner provided financial and technical advisory, respectively—bringing top-tier expertise to every aspect of the project.

The financing marks a significant vote of confidence in biomethane’s role within Italy’s energy mix, which is increasingly pivoting toward decentralized, circular economy solutions that reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Turning Waste into Energy: A Model for Sustainable Bioenergy
The plants, all located in northern Italy, will operate using agricultural by-products and animal manure, transforming waste into renewable, grid-injectable biomethane. Construction is expected to be completed within ten months, with the sites forming the first phase of a planned portfolio of over 20 similar projects.

This initiative exemplifies the potential of greenfield biomethane as a scalable, low-carbon energy solution for rural and semi-urban regions. Beyond energy production, the project contributes to waste management, emissions reduction, and rural economic development.

Looking Ahead: A Clean Energy Blueprint for Italy
As Italy races toward its climate goals, investments like this one are critical in accelerating progress. Quercus and Elionia’s vision to expand biomethane across the region will not only strengthen energy security but also promote a circular agricultural economy that can be replicated across Europe.