In October, Portugal's renewable energy plants achieved a significant milestone, producing enough electricity to meet 68% of the nation's power demand, as reported by national grid operator Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN). This impressive share underscores the country's ongoing commitment to reducing carbon emissions and strengthening energy independence. The October achievement also highlights Portugal's consistent efforts to integrate more green power into its energy mix, even as demand changes with the seasons and weather patterns.
For the first ten months of 2024, renewables accounted for 72% of Portugal's total electricity consumption, demonstrating stable and reliable contributions throughout the year. Hydropower led the way, accounting for 30% of overall usage, benefiting from Portugal's geography, which supports extensive dam and reservoir infrastructure. Wind power was the second-largest renewable source, supplying 26% of total consumption, thanks to Portugal's advantageous coastal and mountainous areas that support efficient wind farm operation.
Solar energy, while still a smaller part of the mix, provided 10% of the nation's electricity during the same period, marking steady growth in its contribution. Solar power is expected to expand further, especially in Portugal's sunny southern regions, as technology and investments in solar infrastructure continue to advance. Biomass energy added another 6% to the renewable mix, showcasing a diverse approach to clean energy generation that helps Portugal reduce dependence on any single renewable source.
Non-renewable energy sources covered only 10% of October's electricity needs, with natural gas accounting for the majority of this segment at 9%. To make up for any shortfall in renewable output, Portugal also relied on imported energy, which represented 22% of consumption in October. These imports indicate the ongoing challenges in achieving full energy independence but also highlight the role that a flexible import strategy plays in balancing the grid during lower renewable production periods.
Despite these occasional challenges, Portugal's electricity consumption has increased by 2.3% in the first ten months of 2024, adjusting for temperature and workdays. This rise reflects growing demand across the country, driven by economic growth and increasing energy needs. Looking ahead, Portugal's continued investment in grid improvements and renewable infrastructure is expected to enhance energy security and support the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable power system for years to come.
