UGGC Avocats advises Banque des territoires on “Storm” program with Arkolia

The firm acted as advisor to Banque des Territoires on all aspects of structuring the operation, setting up the partnership and securing the legal aspects of the program, which represents one of the most significant solar projects to have been rolled out nationwide in recent years.

Partners since 2012, Banque des Territoires and Arkolia are continuing to roll out an ambitious program aimed at accelerating the development, construction and operation of ground-mounted and rooftop photovoltaic projects throughout France, against a backdrop of major national challenges in terms of energy transition and energy sovereignty.

The first phase of the program, completed in June 2025, involved 6 ground-mounted photovoltaic power plants and 454 rooftop installations throughout France, representing a total capacity of 160 MWp. This phase, almost fully completed, is based on a long-term co-investment model, with Banque des Territoires holding 49% of the partnership holding company, and Arkolia responsible for the development, construction, operation and maintenance of the facilities.

The second phase of the program, to be completed by the end of 2025, involves 634 new greenfield projects representing a cumulative capacity of 166 MWp, and is based on the same robust co-investment model in which Banque des Territoires has a 49% stake, with Arkolia retaining responsibility for project development, construction and operation.

On completion of the two phases of the “Storm” program, more than 1,100 agricultural rooftops and ground-mounted photovoltaic power plants will be built, with a total installed capacity of 326 MWp. Operation of the photovoltaic power plants will begin progressively from 2025 for the first tranche, then during 2026 for the second, with full commissioning scheduled by mid-2027. The program will contribute to the production of decarbonized, local and sovereign energy, the reduction of CO₂ emissions and the creation of non-dislocatable jobs in the territories.

This transaction confirms Banque des Territoires’ commitment to ecological transformation, as well as UGGC Avocats’ expertise in supporting structuring operations in the renewable energy and infrastructure sectors.

Legal advice

Banque des territoires is advised by UGGC Avocats with a team led by Yves Mondellini (partner) and comprising Philippe Hansen (partner), Sophie Erignac-Godefroy (partner), Corentin Chevallier (partner), Benoît Marx (counsel), Jasmine Doucey (associate) and Cindy Batateiro (associate).