We are pleased to announce the successful launch of our new Global Monitoring Centre in Milan.

This state-of-the-art facility, which is now fully operational, will move towards the monitoring of assets totaling 2 gigawatts. By centralizing the asset operation function into a singular best-practice unit, Obton marks a significant advancement from the previous model that involved a dispersed scope across multiple independent Operation & Maintenance providers.

The primary tool for plant performance monitoring at the centre is the VCOM (Virtual Control Room) software provided by meteocontrol. Consolidating all plants onto this unified monitoring platform, managed directly by Obton, enhances data control and provides superior intelligence for timely and accurate decision-making.

Arturo Grauso, Head of Plant Management at Obton, states,

"The launch of our Global Monitoring Centre represents a pivotal step in taking full control of our plant operations. By bringing the operational scope in-house, we aim to enhance asset performance through detailed data analysis and improved management."

Arturo Grauso, Obton (right) and Giorgio Inforzato, meteocontrol at Obton’s new Monitoring Centre in Milan.

The VCOM platform was originally selected by Simon Russold, Head of Commercial Asset Management at Obton. He recognized the benefits of the platform due to its comprehensive capabilities that align perfectly with Obton's requirements for a monitoring system. Its robust features facilitate seamless integration and efficient management of plant operations.

Key Benefits:

• Detailed oversight of all sites using meteocontrol’s VCOM, combined with a highly skilled team, results in minimized outages and optimal production.
  
  
• Preventive and corrective maintenance tasks are conducted via external partners, while Obton retains full operational responsibility. This enhanced control over site activities and clear role delineation optimizes resource utilization.
  
  
• Control over data leads to improved reporting, performance measurement, and performance control.
  
  
• Optimal production, efficient resource use, and enhanced control contribute to increased internal rate of return (IRR) for investor-owned funds.
  
  

Anja Dehne, Key Account Manager at meteocontrol, comments, "Our close and trusted collaboration with Obton enables both parties to grow their businesses. By understanding Obton’s operational processes, we can continuously refine our VCOM platform to provide valuable insights and support them best in managing their assets."

With the inauguration of the Global Monitoring Centre and the implementation of meteocontrol’s VCOM software, Obton is poised to achieve new milestones in the efficient and sustainable management of its assets.

About meteocontrol:

meteocontrol is a leading full-service provider of innovative solutions for energy and asset management, catering to projects ranging from commercial to utility-scale. With 25 years of experience in the renewable energy sector, meteocontrol offers a comprehensive portfolio of services designed to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and profitability of renewable energy systems. Their range of services includes professional system monitoring solutions, control systems, feed-in management, and independent technical consulting services. Headquartered in Augsburg, Germany, meteocontrol serves its international clients from multiple locations worldwide.

About Obton:

Obton is a prominent player in the development and acquisition of solar PV and BESS projects, primarily across Europe, as well as in the APAC region and Canada. Having been entrenched in the solar energy sector since 2009, Obton also specializes in asset management for solar PV and BESS projects. As of 2024, they oversee the active operation of a rapid growing PV-portfolio of more than 2,1 GWp with an enterprise value of EUR 3,9bn.

Obton’s strategic approach encompasses involvement in both develop-to-own and develop-to-sell initiatives, providing opportunities for institutional investors to participate in large-scale solar PV and battery storage projects.