Covilhã, Portugal, May 27, 2025 (Lusa) - The Boidobra Solar Power Plant in Covilhã has been connected to the national grid and can produce around 70 gigawatts (GW) annually, equivalent to the approximate consumption of 60,000 homes.
The information was released to the Lusa news agency on Tuesday by Prosolia Energy, an independent energy producer with investments in Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Germany and Mexico.
"With an installed capacity of 43 megawatts (MW), the facility is now fully operational, generating around 70 gigawatts (GWh) of clean energy per year — enough to supply around 60,000 homes," the company said in a statement.
According to Prosolia Energy, the electricity produced avoids the emission of up to 61,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year.
According to the company, the new solar power plant allows Prosolia Energy to reinforce its commitment "to energy transition and environmental sustainability".
"The plant combines fixed structures and single-axis solar trackers, which follow the movement of the sun throughout the day, increasing energy production by 15% to 20% compared to conventional fixed systems," the company explained.
According to the same note, a partnership has been established with local shepherds to allow sheep to graze within the boundaries of the Boidobra Solar Plant, a village adjacent to Covilhã, in the district of Castelo Branco.
The measure aims to promote "natural vegetation management, favouring soil fertilisation and preserving native biodiversity".
Prosolia Energy added that the facility was created with high base fences and wide mesh close to the ground, "allowing small mammals to pass safely, maintaining ecological connectivity and promoting a balanced ecosystem."
The company stressed that Boidobra's facilities have a share in the Automatic Frequency Restoration Reserve and Manual Reserve markets, "providing essential flexibility services to ensure the stability of the electricity grid".
"This share reflects Prosolia Energy's strategic vision of strengthening energy security, in line with the growing need for flexible and sustainable energy sources. By contributing to grid stability, we reaffirm our commitment to the safety and reliability of the national electricity system," said the company's national manager, Pedro Pereira da Silva, quoted in the statement.
AYR/ADB // ADB.
Lusa
