Starlight Wins Key Legal Case in Sicily, Unlocking €70 Million in Renewable Projects

Starlight Wins Key Legal Case in Sicily, Unlocking €70 Million in Renewable Projects

Starlight is pleased to have won an important legal case in Sicily that clears the way for over €70 million worth of renewable energy projects to move forward.

The Council of Administrative Justice for the Sicilian Region (CGARS) confirmed that a regional rule preventing the transfer of renewable energy project authorisations before construction was not valid under national or regional law. This decision removes a major barrier that had slowed down investment and innovation in Sicily’s renewable energy sector. It also sets a positive precedent for the entire Italian market, allowing developers and investors to collaborate more freely on clean energy projects.

“This outcome confirms Starlight’s responsible business model – says Gianluca Boccanera, Global Managing Director of Starlight – developing renewable projects and then transferring them to funds managed by NextEnergy Group, while remaining actively involved in their construction and operation. We’re not a speculative developer. We build lasting partnerships with the territories where we work, ensuring long-term value for local communities.”

“This ruling carries significance well beyond the individual case – adds Michele Catanzaro, Stralight General Counsel – because it reaffirms fundamental principles such as legal certainty, freedom of enterprise, and fair competition in the renewable –energy market. The CGARS recognised that regional regulations cannot introduce constraints that are inconsistent with the national legal framework, thereby restoring clarity and coherence to the authorisation system. For Starlight, it is also a confirmation of the correctness and transparency of our work and  development model”.

Today, Starlight manages a global development pipeline of over 11 GW across Canada, Greece, Romania, the UK, and Italy, with 5 GW in Italy alone, including 1.7 GW in Sicily. The ruling allows Starlight and other developers to move forward with several projects in the region that had been delayed, unlocking significant investments which can create additions jobs while reducing the energy bill for the local population and companies.

This success is a strong signal of confidence in Sicily’s renewable potential and further strengthens Starlight’s role as an ethical, responsible, and forward-looking developer committed to advancing the clean energy transition.