VINCI Expands Globally with Strategic Energy and Building Solutions Acquisitions
VINCI Energies has taken a significant step in strengthening its presence in Eastern Europe by signing an agreement to acquire Romania’s EnergoBit group. This deal, still subject to regulatory approval, marks a pivotal moment for the French infrastructure giant, especially as Romania undergoes rapid energy transition and infrastructure upgrades.
Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Cluj-Napoca, EnergoBit has become a national leader in electrical infrastructure. The company posted consolidated revenues of €100 million in 2024, with a team of 825 employees spread across eight sites nationwide. Its expertise ranges from engineering and installing electrical substations to overhead transmission and distribution lines, along with advanced network monitoring and automation systems. EnergoBit also boasts a manufacturing facility for transformers and medium-voltage switchgear, enabling it to offer bespoke solutions to both public and private sector clients.
The acquisition will extend VINCI’s Omexom brand into Romania, reinforcing its standing in the country where it has operated since 2007 and already employs 1,500 people. In 2024, VINCI Group’s Romanian operations generated more than €200 million, driven largely by VINCI Energies (€150 million+) and VINCI Construction (€50 million).
According to VINCI Energies, the move is not just about market presence but about unlocking opportunities in renewable energy integration, grid modernisation, and infrastructure resilience. Romania’s push towards clean energy and modernised grids makes EnergoBit’s capabilities a strategic fit.
Expanding High-Tech Building Solutions in Germany
In Germany, VINCI Energies has also reached an agreement to acquire Zimmer & Hälbig, a specialist in high-performance HVAC-R (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) solutions. This acquisition, pending German competition authority approval, adds significant expertise in technically demanding projects for hospitals, laboratories, industrial plants, clean rooms, and data centres.
Founded in 1974, the Bielefeld-based company operates across seven German cities and recorded €96 million in revenue in 2024 with 310 employees. It will be integrated into VINCI Energies Building Solutions’ network, which encompasses 150 business units in Germany.
Zimmer & Hälbig’s reputation for precision engineering and its experience with mission-critical environments will allow VINCI Energies to expand its multi-technical offering to clients. This aligns with Germany’s growing demand for energy-efficient, technologically advanced building systems, particularly in healthcare and data management sectors.
Germany is VINCI’s second-largest international market, with the Group generating €5.6 billion there in 2024, including €4.1 billion from energy solutions. VINCI Concessions also operates public-private partnerships for highway infrastructure and is active in the country’s EV charging infrastructure.
Finalising Cobra IS Acquisition Terms
Beyond these targeted acquisitions, VINCI has concluded final arrangements with ACS regarding its purchase of Cobra IS, completed in December 2021. Cobra IS, a major player in energy and industrial services, was acquired for a total of €5.3 billion, including cash positions and adjustments.
The new agreement fixes the earn-out for renewable energy developments at €380 million, with €300 million still to be paid in cash. Initially, the earn-out was linked to each “Ready to Build” project, capped at €600 million. The revised arrangement also terminates a planned joint venture between VINCI and ACS for renewable energy projects, reflecting evolving investment priorities.
VINCI confirmed that these changes will have no significant impact on its financial statements, as most provisions had already been accounted for.
Strengthening a Global Infrastructure and Energy Portfolio
These acquisitions reflect VINCI’s ongoing strategy to broaden its capabilities in both established and emerging markets. The focus is clear: reinforce expertise in renewable energy infrastructure, deliver high-value building solutions, and strengthen market share in key regions.
EnergoBit’s integration will not only enhance VINCI’s role in Romania’s energy transformation but also serve as a launchpad for broader Eastern European operations. Zimmer & Hälbig’s expertise will bolster Germany’s push for sustainable, high-tech buildings. Meanwhile, the finalisation of the Cobra IS acquisition secures VINCI’s long-term foothold in global energy solutions.
Industry analysts note that VINCI’s recent moves highlight its commitment to diversifying revenue streams while aligning with the global shift towards cleaner energy and digitalised infrastructure.
Building Momentum for a Sustainable Future
VINCI’s latest acquisitions illustrate a strategic blend of regional market expansion and technical capability enhancement. As the global demand for energy efficiency, grid modernisation, and renewable integration accelerates, these investments position the Group to deliver both economic and environmental value.
With established operations in more than 120 countries, VINCI is demonstrating that targeted acquisitions, coupled with strong local integration, can deliver long-term growth and resilience.
