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EDP launches Europe’s largest solar power plant in Portugal

EDP Renewables commissions the Cerca photovoltaic plant, marking a significant step forward in Portugal's energy transition with 202 MWp of capacity.

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EDP centrale solaire Portugal

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EDP Renewables ‘ Cerca plant in the Lisbon district is the company’s largest solar installation in Europe. With a capacity of 202 MWp, the plant is equipped with over 310,000 bifacial solar panels, optimizing the conversion of solar energy into electricity. The commissioning of Cerca is in line with EDP’s aim of playing a key role in Portugal’s energy transition, while the company also has plans to build a green hydrogen power plant in the country.

Responding to solar tenders

Cerca is the first large-capacity solar power plant developed by EDP Renewables following the 2019 public tender. This project testifies to EDP’s ability to build ambitious facilities in a complex context, marked by the challenges of the pandemic, geopolitical tensions and rising raw material costs. The plant directly supplies 100,000 homes, avoiding the emission of 170,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Environmental impact and contribution to the network

With an estimated annual output of 330 GWh, the Cerca plant makes a significant contribution to renewable energy production in Portugal. This project is part of EDP Renewables’ wider drive to accelerate energy transition and promote clean energy. By preventing the emission of millions of kilometers traveled by car, Cerca strengthens Portugal’s position in the fight against climate change.

Global expansion and investment in solar power

EDP Renewables is not limited to the Portuguese market, investing in solar power worldwide. Notable projects include installations in Brazil, Mexico and Vietnam, testifying to EDP’s global approach to the solar sector. By 2026, the company plans to devote half of its worldwide investments to solar projects.

In addition to solar installations, EDP is developing hybrid projects combining wind and solar power, as in Penela and Ansião. These initiatives aim to maximize the use of renewable resources and optimize connection to the electricity grid. EDP Renewables has set itself the target of bringing an additional 1 GW of renewable energy on stream in Portugal by 2026, reinforcing its contribution to the country’s decarbonization.

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