Solar Energy Output by September Matches Total 2023 Production
In a major milestone for renewable energy, Portugal has generated more solar power by September 5th, 2024, than the total amount produced in all of 2023. Data from the national grid operator, REN (Redes Energéticas Nacionais), shows that 3.99 terawatt-hours (TWh) of solar energy were generated in the first nine months of 2024, surpassing the 3.6 TWh produced throughout 2023.
New Solar Peak Recorded in August
August 2024 also saw a new peak in solar energy production. On August 14, Portugal's solar output reached 2,640 megawatts (MW), significantly exceeding the previous record of 1,822 MW set on September 23, 2023. This peak underscores the growing capacity and efficiency of the country's solar infrastructure.
Between January 1st and May 31st of 2023, 18,751 GWh of electricity were generated from Continental Portugal, from which 73.2% came from natural resources (sources (30.5% wind, 28.30% hydro, 7.6% bioenergy and 6.8% solar). Other sources include: Natural Gas (15.9%), Fossil CHP (4.7%), and Pumped Storage (6.2%).
Renewables Supply 73% of Portugal’s Energy Needs
By the end of September, renewable energy sources accounted for 73% of Portugal's total electricity consumption, with solar energy contributing 10%. In 2020, the share was at 58% according to Eurostat. REN emphasized that this achievement reflects Portugal’s sustainable energy strategy, which focuses on increasing the share of endogenous renewable sources while ensuring energy security and reliability in the national grid system.
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