Spain's Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) has granted Administrative Construction Authorisation (AAC) to 283 renewable energy projects, totaling 28GW, in line with deadlines set by Royal Decree-Law 23/2020. These projects represent a combined capacity of 28,123MW and will require an investment exceeding €17 billion, generating approximately 300,000 jobs.
The projects approved under the AAC include 43 wind projects with a combined capacity of 2.6GW and 239 photovoltaic projects totaling 24.8GW, along with a 573MW pumping hydroelectric plant. This approval enables the immediate commencement of construction, with all projects required to be operational within three years, contributing to the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC).
Of the 428 projects that began the process to obtain AAC, 321 received a favorable Environmental Impact Statement, with 70% needing to meet mandatory conditions. The 283 projects granted AAC are expected to significantly advance Spain's renewable energy goals, as outlined in the PNIEC's draft update for 2023-2030, which aims to triple solar power capacity to over 76GW and double wind power capacity to over 62GW by the end of the decade.
MITECO highlighted the economic impact, stating that the construction of these facilities will generate about 300,000 jobs, with more than 41,000 in the wind sector and over 260,000 in photovoltaics. The ministry emphasized the benefits for rural areas, underscoring the potential for regional economic development.
These projects are a key part of Spain's strategy to increase the share of clean power to 81% of electricity generation by 2030, reinforcing the country's commitment to renewable energy growth.
