Orrick Advises Octopus Energy Generation on BayWa r.e. Solar Deal in France.
Orrick has advised Octopus Energy Generation on the acquisition of two French solar farms built on former military sites.
These repurposed areas are now generating clean energy for thousands of homes. While Orrick provided legal counsel for the deal, technical due diligence was carried out by Natural Power, ensuring the sites were ready to deliver long-term renewable power.
The energy transition in France just got a serious jolt, thanks to Octopus’ latest acquisition: the 80MW “Stronghold” solar portfolio, made up of two 40MW solar farms in Indre and Charente Maritime.
These sites, now officially online, are pulling double duty—generating clean electricity while continuing to serve as pasture for sheep.
This deal is part of Octopus’ broader push to deepen its renewable roots across France, where it plans to invest around €1 billion into wind and solar infrastructure. With over 500MW now under operation or construction in the country, Octopus is building more than projects—it’s building momentum.
Orrick advised on the legal aspects of the acquisition, overseeing everything from contracts to regulatory matters.
The team of Paul Loisel, Geoffroy Berthon, and Marine Jamain provided strategic counsel throughout the transaction. Technical due diligence was led by Natural Power, ensuring the sites were fully prepared for efficient, long-term operation.
“It’s not just about checking boxes,” said Wiliam Delabre, Natural Power’s Head of Solar. “We looked at every layer of the project to make sure it delivers value and long-term impact.”
The farms were acquired from BayWa r.e. France, on behalf of the Sky Fund (ORI SCSp), which Octopus manages.
Solar, Wind, and Beyond
This isn’t Octopus’ first clean energy move in France—and definitely not its last. The company also recently snapped up two wind projects: the 35 MW Vallée 1 site in Aisne and the 20 MW Terrier de la Pointe project in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Once spinning, they’ll deliver clean power to tens of thousands of households.
France is now Octopus Energy’s biggest market outside the UK, and with good reason. From repurposed land to rural communities, the opportunities for sustainable energy here are vast—and Octopus seems keen to tap into all of them.
Agrivoltaics and Community Innovation
What makes Octopus’ approach stand out is its commitment to integration. Solar farms that support agriculture. Wind farms that lower energy bills for nearby residents.
Through ventures like FFNEV and the acquisition of agrivoltaic specialist OX2 France, Octopus is betting big on clean energy that fits into real-life settings.
Its "Fan Club" initiative, for example, offers cheaper electricity to those living near wind turbines when they’re generating power. One pilot, already up and running near Nantes, has shown how the right pricing model can win hearts—and lower bills.
Zoisa North-Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy Generation, said: “France has incredible potential to become a renewable energy powerhouse. We’re always looking at how we can create a cleaner and cheaper energy system for everyone. With these latest investments, we’re scaling cutting-edge agri-solar to wind farms delivering home-grown clean power to power 150,000 homes.”
Daniel Gäfke, COO of BayWa r.e., said: "The fact that we closed these standout projects in France is a strong display of our drive and capability to realise our portfolio in our key markets. We are proud to deliver such high-quality renewable energy projects, which are not only exciting developments with innovative features, but also economically attractive assets for our partners. With over 1.5 GW of projects sold globally during 2024 until today, we are well on track to fulfil our commitment to playing a leading role in driving the global energy transition forward."
Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP is a global law firm founded in San Francisco in 1863, with over 1,000 lawyers across 25+ offices worldwide. The firm advises on technology, energy and infrastructure, finance, and litigation. Known for its innovation and client-focused approach, Orrick has consistently ranked among the most forward-thinking law firms globally.
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