Portugal's new government has signaled its commitment to developing offshore wind energy, aiming to capitalize on its vast potential for clean electricity generation. This move builds upon the groundwork laid by the previous administration,which had planned the country's first offshore wind auction with a capacity of 2 gigawatts (GW).
Portugal's new government prioritizes offshore wind development, building upon plans for the country's first auction. The article explores the potential of this renewable energy source and the interest from major players in the energy sector.
Uncertain Capacity, Clear Commitment
While details regarding the exact capacity offered in the auction remain under discussion, Environment Minister Maria da Graca Carvalho has confirmed the government's ongoing commitment to the project. She has indicated that further details on the policy will be unveiled before the summer break, suggesting an announcement in July.
Portugal's Existing Wind Landscape
Portugal is not entirely new to wind energy. The country already boasts a small, operational 25-megawatt floating wind project off its Atlantic coast, showcasing the potential of this technology. This project is owned by Ocean Winds, a joint venture between Portuguese utility EDP and French energy giant Engie.
Potential Players in the Offshore Wind Auction
Several major players in the energy sector have expressed interest in participating in the upcoming auction. These include prominent names like Germany's BayWa, the Irish-Spanish consortium IberBlue Wind, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, and a joint venture between Portugal's Galp Energia and France's TotalEnergies.
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The Power of Floating Wind Farms
A key factor driving the focus on offshore wind is the potential of floating wind farms. These farms, installed in deeper waters, benefit from stronger and more consistent winds compared to their fixed-bottom or onshore counterparts. This translates to increased electricity generation capacity.
Source: Reuters
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