1. Uniper solar expands into Sweden
German energy company Uniper has announced plans to construct its first solar power farms in Sweden, marking a significant step in the company’s broader push toward renewable energy. The project will be developed in partnership with Solgrid, a solar energy provider, and will include two facilities—Segaas and Segerhult—located in central Sweden.
The combined capacity of the two solar farms is expected to reach 35 megawatts (MW). Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with completion anticipated by 2027.
Johan Svenningsson, CEO of Uniper Sweden, highlighted the importance of a diversified energy mix to meet the country’s growing electricity demands. “If Sweden is to succeed in its energy transition and double electricity production, it must invest in all areas. All types of power are needed,” he stated.
Sweden’s electricity demand is projected to rise sharply—from 136 terawatt hours (TWh) today to approximately 300 TWh by 2045—driven by industrial growth and the electrification of transportation. While the Swedish government is currently prioritising nuclear energy to meet this demand, Uniper’s solar initiative reflects a complementary approach to achieving energy security and sustainability.
Uniper already operates 74 hydropower plants in Sweden and co-owns all of the country’s nuclear power stations. The company is also targeting 10 gigawatts (GW) of wind and solar capacity ready for construction by 2030, with active projects underway in Germany, Hungary, and the UK.
This move not only strengthens Uniper’s renewable portfolio but also aligns with broader European goals for a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
2. Knauf insulation to build £170M Welsh plant
Shotton, North Wales – May 2025 — In a significant boost to the UK’s manufacturing and sustainability sectors, Knauf Insulation has announced a £170 million investment in a state-of-the-art production facility in Shotton, North Wales. The development is expected to create approximately 140 direct jobs and generate further employment opportunities across local supply chains.
The new facility will specialise in the production of non-combustible rock mineral wool insulation, with an annual output capacity exceeding 100,000 tonnes. This expansion aligns with both UK and Welsh Government goals to promote sustainable construction and energy efficiency.
A standout feature of the facility is its use of a submerged arc furnace—a first for the UK—which will enable the production of low embodied carbon, fully recyclable insulation materials. These products are designed to support the construction of safer, more energy-efficient buildings, contributing to the UK’s broader climate and industrial strategies.
Neil Hargreaves, Managing Director of Knauf Insulation Northern Europe, called out the strategic importance of the project:
> “This investment reflects our commitment to sustainability and innovation. It also reinforces our long-standing relationship with Wales and supports the region’s industrial vision for Deeside.”
The announcement coincided with a UK-EU summit in London, underscoring the UK Government’s efforts to attract inward investment and stimulate regional economic growth. The project has received backing from both the UK and Welsh Governments, including support through the North Wales Growth Deal and the Flintshire and Wrexham Investment Zone.
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens hailed the move as a “vote of confidence in the Welsh economy,” while Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates noted the project’s potential to strengthen the region’s advanced manufacturing cluster.
This new facility adds to Knauf’s existing operations in North Wales and marks a major milestone in the company’s expansion across Europe.
3. xNova raises €1M to power global expansion
Madrid, Spain – January 2025 — xNova International, a rising star in market intelligence for exporting businesses, has successfully closed a €1 million Seed funding round to accelerate its mission of helping industries expand internationally. The round was led by Abac Nest Ventures, with participation from Angels (the investment arm of Juan Roig), BStartup (Banco Sabadell), and several returning investors.
Founded in 2022 by Amado Villar and Miguel Ortega, xNova is transforming how export departments operate by providing a powerful software platform that leverages AI and Big Data to analyse millions of international trade data points. This enables businesses to identify new opportunities, anticipate risks, and make strategic, data-driven decisions in global markets.
“At xNova, we are redefining how exporting companies access international markets,” said Amado Villar, CEO and Co-founder. “This investment will allow us to achieve global data coverage and continue our expansion efforts into other European markets.”
The platform is already making waves in key sectors such as food & beverages and construction materials, helping clients become more competitive and unlock new business opportunities abroad. With the fresh capital, xNova aims to enhance its global data infrastructure—an ambitious move that will allow clients to access potential buyers and partners anywhere in the world.
Joan Pina, Managing Partner at Abac Nest Ventures, stressed the strategic value of the investment:
“xNova addresses a critical need with a robust platform powered by AI and Big Data that delivers tangible value from day one. We are proud to support tech solutions like xNova that empower exporting companies to expand with confidence and precision.”
As global trade becomes increasingly complex and competitive, xNova’s data-driven approach offers a timely solution for companies seeking to internationalise efficiently and effectively.
4. Manufacturer secures millions for growth
Corwen, Wales – May 2025 — A family-owned Welsh manufacturer is set to take its operations global following a significant multi-million-pound funding package from Lloyds Bank. Neatcrown Corwen Ltd, a contract manufacturer of chemical products for agriculture and horticulture, has announced ambitious plans to expand its international footprint, aiming to boost exports and create new jobs.
With nearly 25 years of experience, Neatcrown has built a reputation for producing high-quality nutrition and protection solutions for plants and crops. The company currently serves 35 countries, from the United States to Australasia, and is now poised to deepen its global reach.
The funding package includes invoice financing, working capital, a business mortgage, and asset financing. This comprehensive support will enable Neatcrown to purchase new machinery, increase production capacity, and diversify into new international markets. The company aims to increase its turnover by 50% and create 15 new jobs over the next three years.
Colin Roberts, CEO of Neatcrown Corwen Ltd, accentuated the importance of the funding in achieving their growth goals:
“Increasing overseas export is a huge ambition of ours – it will ensure we’re able to maintain momentum and increase output year-round. This funding package from Lloyds is instrumental to helping us on our growth journey. Although we’re focused on progression, our core values haven’t changed. We’ll remain committed to providing customers with high-quality products that exceed their expectations, alongside a flexible and responsive service.”
Trevor Percival, Relationship Director at Lloyds, added:
“We’re proud to back Welsh businesses with bold global ambitions. This is more than just growth; it’s about nurturing homegrown success stories to unlock global impact. Neatcrown is a perfect example showcasing skills and expertise from Wales within the manufacturing industry.”
Neatcrown’s expansion is not only a win for the company but also a boost for the local economy, with the creation of new jobs and increased demand for local suppliers and services. The move underscores the growing global demand for sustainable and high-quality agricultural solutions, and Neatcrown’s readiness to meet that demand head-on.
