Verdalia Bioenergy, backed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management's infrastructure division, has acquired four biomethane plants in northern Italy, with legal counsel provided by Watson Farley & Williams (WFW). The plants, located in the Piedmont and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions, are expected to be operational between the fourth quarter of 2025 and the second quarter of 2026.
The acquisition represents a significant step forward in Verdalia's commitment to developing and operating biomethane facilities across Europe. The four plants will collectively generate approximately 230 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of biomethane annually, derived from the processing of 262,000 tonnes of animal and plant biomass. This production is projected to eliminate approximately 53,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas (CO2) emissions each year, contributing to the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.
Verdalia, a specialist in the development, acquisition, construction, and operation of biomethane plants, will collaborate with Healthy Business Advisory, an ESG specialist technical and financial consultant, on these projects.
WFW's Italy Energy team, led by Counsel Matteo Trabacchin, provided comprehensive legal support to Verdalia throughout the acquisition process. The team, which included Associates Dario Matrecano and Francesca Angelilli, focused on drafting and negotiating the sale and purchase agreements, as well as service agreements. Partner Tiziana Manenti, assisted by Senior Associate Anthony Bellacci and Associates Antimo Rocco Nersita and Marco Iannotti, oversaw all aspects of the legal due diligence.
The WFW team worked closely with Verdalia's in-house legal team, comprising Group General Counsel Pedro Perea, Head of Legal Italy Letizia Giampieri, and Legal Manager Spain Javier Franch.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Verdalia, further strengthening its position as a leading player in the European biomethane market. The four new plants will contribute to the company's ambitious goals of expanding its renewable energy portfolio and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
