Portugal’s largest wind Farm gets green light: Iberdrola’s Tâmega project integrates wind and hydro power

Iberdrola has secured the final environmental approval from the Portuguese government to construct the country’s largest wind farm, marking a significant step forward in Portugal’s commitment to decarbonization and sustainable energy. The project, with a capacity of 274 MW—enough to power 128,000 households—will be situated in the districts of Vila Real and Braga. It is notable not only for its size but also as the nation’s largest hybridization project, leveraging the grid injection point at the existing Tâmega hydroelectric complex.

This pioneering project will combine wind and hydroelectric power, optimizing the use of renewable resources. The integration allows for more stable and efficient energy production, reducing reliance on variable environmental conditions. By sharing infrastructure such as substations and grid connections, the project minimizes its environmental footprint compared to separate installations.

The approval for the Tâmega Eólico project by the Portuguese environmental agency, APA (Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente), is a critical milestone following the favorable Environmental Impact Statement received in March 2023. With this clearance, Iberdrola is set to apply for a production license, aiming to start construction by early 2025.

Iberdrola is committed to maintaining environmental integrity, implementing measures such as the continuation of successful initiatives from the Tâmega Hydroelectric System. These include planting native species, managing local forests, and enhancing habitats for local fauna like bats. Furthermore, the company will undertake extensive ecological monitoring during and after construction to minimize impacts on the local ecosystem.

The Tâmega project represents one of Europe’s most significant hydroelectric endeavors in the last 25 years, comprising three power plants with a total capacity of 1,158 MW. It will significantly boost the local energy supply while eliminating 1.2 million tonnes of CO2 annually. The project’s construction phase is expected to create up to 3,500 direct jobs and support over 100 suppliers, enhancing economic activity in the region.