Greece's energy ministry is reportedly in the final stages of formulating plans for the nation's inaugural auction dedicated to solar projects coupled with energy storage, with expectations to unveil the initiative by the end of 2023. According to sources cited by Energypress, the official launch of the auction is anticipated no later than February next year.
The upcoming tender is designed to offer both investment and operational support to mature projects that have secured connection agreements. Sources suggest that the auction will target contracting between 200 MW and 300 MW of capacity, constituting a crucial component of a broader program aimed at supporting 2 GW of solar projects integrated with behind-the-meter energy storage facilities.
Notably, the inclusion of a mandatory battery storage element is expected to be a key requirement in this forthcoming solicitation. The move aligns with Greece's strategic approach to address renewable power curtailments attributed to the expanding grid insufficiency, as highlighted by data from power grid operator IPTO, which indicates over 10.5 GW of solar projects connected to the transmission system and 1.1 GW to the distribution network.
As of the end of June, Greece boasted 11.3 GW of operational renewable power plants, excluding large hydropower stations. Solar farms held the lion's share with a combined capacity of 5.8 GW. This initiative underscores Greece's commitment to bolstering its renewable energy portfolio and addressing grid challenges through innovative solutions.
