Spanish utility giant, Iberdrola, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the construction of its inaugural hybrid solar-wind plant in Spain. This pioneering project, located in the northern province of Burgos, is poised to revolutionize clean energy generation in the region.
The solar photovoltaic (PV) component of the hybrid plant boasts an impressive capacity of 74 megawatts (MW), featuring more than 120,000 meticulously installed modules. Intriguingly, this solar facility is strategically positioned adjacent to a 69MW wind power plant, harnessing the combined power of two renewable energy sources.
See also: Iberdrola Takes the Lead in Renewable Energy with First Hybrid Wind and Solar Complex in Spain
Iberdrola's commitment to sustainability is underscored by its substantial investment of €40 million (approximately US$42 million) in the execution of this groundbreaking project. The initiative not only optimizes grid utilization but also takes meticulous measures to minimize the environmental impact on the surrounding land, exemplifying Iberdrola's dedication to responsible energy development.
This achievement is just the beginning of Iberdrola's ambitious renewable energy journey in Spain. The company has expressed its intent to continue investing in hybrid projects in the country in the years to come. Furthermore, within the province of Burgos, Iberdrola is actively progressing with the construction of two additional solar PV projects with a combined capacity of 400MW. Notably, the company reached a significant milestone last year by completing a 50MW solar project and has initiated the commissioning process for another 50MW project in Salamanca.
Spain remains a pivotal market for Iberdrola, with substantial investments on the horizon. The company is committed to injecting capital into 1.3 gigawatts (GW) of renewables in Spain, with solar PV accounting for a substantial 80% of this capacity, in collaboration with the Norwegian sovereign wealth fund.
Iberdrola's commitment to sustainable energy development extends beyond Spain's borders. Earlier this year, the company secured a substantial €1 billion financing agreement with the European Investment Bank. This financial commitment will be directed toward the deployment of more than 2.2GW of solar PV and wind farms, spanning Spain, Portugal, and Germany, further solidifying Iberdrola's status as a global leader in renewable energy.
On a global scale, Iberdrola has already installed over 4.5GW of solar PV capacity across the various markets it operates in, with an impressive 2.2GW originating from Spain alone. This resounding commitment to clean energy underscores Iberdrola's pivotal role in driving the transition to sustainable power sources, both domestically and internationally.