BNP Paribas AM and Mirova Invest Over €200M in French Renewables Leader Arkolia
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- Strategic Alliance: Mirova and BNP Paribas Asset Management acquired equal equity stakes in Arkolia, investing over €200 million to accelerate its renewable energy growth.
- Growth Ambitions: Arkolia aims to reach 1.5 GW capacity, double revenue to exceed €500M, and expand its workforce to over 350 employees.
- Sector Leadership: The partnership strengthens Arkolia’s leadership in rooftop solar and distributed renewable energy in France.
A New Chapter for Arkolia
Mirova and BNP Paribas Asset Management have jointly invested over €200 million in Arkolia, a leading French renewable energy developer. Each acquired an equal stake through Mirova Energy Transition Fund 6 (MET6) and BNPP AM’s Low Carbon Transition Infra Equity Fund I. This investment includes funding for Arkolia’s expansion, with co-founder and President Jean-Sébastien Bessière retaining a significant stake alongside employees.
“This strategic alliance represents much more than just a new chapter in our story; it is the beginning of a whole new book filled with challenges and opportunities,” said Jean-Sébastien Bessière. “Our goal was to identify allies capable of accelerating growth while preserving our DNA of innovation and value sharing.”
Accelerating Renewable Energy Growth
Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Mauguio, Arkolia is a key player in rooftop photovoltaic systems, with 562 MW in operation. This partnership will fund its project pipeline and enable national expansion. The company aims to scale to 1.5 GW capacity, double its revenue to surpass €500 million, and grow its team to 350 employees by 2025.
“This alliance strengthens our ability to fulfill our founding promise: achieving energy independence by democratizing and decentralizing renewable energy,” added Bessière.
Industry Leaders Join Forces
Mirova and BNPP AM bring significant expertise in sustainable infrastructure.
“We are delighted to partner with Mirova and Arkolia’s management to support the company’s leadership in distributed energy generation,” said Rodolphe Brumm, Head of Infrastructure Private Equity at BNP Paribas AM.
Raphaël Lance, Head of Energy Transition Funds at Mirova, emphasized the importance of scaling proven technologies. “With this investment, we will provide the company with the financial means to achieve its ambition and offer a clear growth path under the leadership of Jean-Sébastien Bessière and Katia Sigaud.”
Looking Ahead
The transaction is expected to close in H1 2025, pending regulatory approval. Together, Mirova and BNPP AM aim to drive Arkolia’s leadership in France’s growing renewable energy sector, supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy.
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