Galp and Powin Launch Utility-Scale Battery System at Alcoutim Solar Park to Revolutionize Energy Storage in Portugal
In a groundbreaking move for renewable energy in Europe, Galp, Portugal’s leading integrated energy company, has partnered with Powin, a U.S.-based global energy storage integrator, to commission a 5 MW/20 MWh utility-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) at the Alcoutim Solar Park. Located in the sunny southern region of the Algarve, this project marks Galp’s first energy storage unit and Powin’s debut installation in Europe. The innovative system will enable the solar plant to store excess energy during peak production periods and supply it to the grid when demand is highest, maximizing the value of renewable energy generation.
Enhancing Renewable Energy Dispatchability and Grid Stability
The newly installed battery system plays a pivotal role in optimizing the Alcoutim Solar Park’s operations. By storing surplus energy generated during sunny hours, the BESS ensures that renewable electricity can be dispatched to the grid during peak demand periods, such as evenings or cloudy days. This capability not only enhances the efficiency of renewable energy use but also strengthens grid stability, making the energy supply more reliable and sustainable.
With a combined capacity of 144 MW, the solar plants in the Alcoutim region produce enough clean energy to power 80,000 homes annually, while avoiding 75,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year. The integration of the battery system further amplifies the environmental benefits by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing the flexibility of the national energy grid.
A Strategic Step Toward Sustainable Energy Solutions
For Galp, this project represents a significant leap forward in its mission to lead Portugal’s transition to a low-carbon economy. “We are leaping ahead in the learning curve, managing complex energy systems and offering a new range of services and opportunities to customers, while contributing to a stable and sustainable energy system,” said Georgios Papadimitriou, Galp’s Executive Vice-President of Renewables, New Business, and Innovation.
The initiative underscores Galp’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy portfolio. As one of the largest producers of photovoltaic solar energy in the Iberian Peninsula, Galp currently boasts 1.5 GW of installed renewable generation capacity and plans to add 400 MW of new renewable capacity by 2026. This project highlights the company’s ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its operations, ensuring long-term sustainability and innovation.
Powin’s Expansion into Europe: A Milestone for Global Energy Storage
The Alcoutim project also marks a critical milestone for Powin as it expands its footprint into Europe. “This project represents a critical step in Powin’s journey as we expand internationally to meet the growing demand for energy storage solutions in Europe,” said Brian Kane, Chief Projects Officer at Powin. “By partnering with forward-thinking organizations like Galp and leveraging high-performance converter technology from Hitachi Energy, we’ve demonstrated our ability to deliver reliable and innovative solutions that help decarbonize the grid.”
The battery energy storage system utilizes Powin’s Centipede Stack750, a state-of-the-art energy storage solution known for its scalability and reliability. Paired with advanced power conversion technology from Hitachi Energy, the system exemplifies the importance of collaboration between global leaders in driving Europe’s energy transition.
Strengthening Partnerships for a Sustainable Future
The success of this project would not have been possible without the strong partnership between Galp, Powin, and Hitachi Energy. “We appreciate the ongoing relationship with Powin and Galp,” said Alberto Prieto, Head of Power Conversion Solutions for Hitachi Energy. “Our converters remain the prime choice for IPPs and integrators seeking grid stability and flexibility, along with digital enablement for operations and business processes for a more sustainable and secure grid.”
This collaboration highlights the critical role of technological innovation and international cooperation in advancing sustainable energy solutions. By combining Powin’s expertise in energy storage, Hitachi Energy’s advanced power conversion systems, and Galp’s leadership in renewable energy, the project sets a benchmark for future developments in the sector.
Driving Portugal’s Renewable Energy Leadership
Portugal has long been recognized as a leader in renewable energy adoption, thanks to its abundant solar and wind resources. The Alcoutim Solar Park, enhanced by the new battery storage system, reinforces the country’s position as a pioneer in integrating renewable energy into the national grid. By enabling more efficient energy dispatch and reducing carbon emissions, this project aligns with Portugal’s broader climate goals and contributes to the European Union’s target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
Expanding Opportunities for Energy Storage
As the demand for energy storage solutions continues to grow, projects like the Alcoutim Solar Park demonstrate the immense potential of battery systems to transform renewable energy markets. By storing excess energy and supplying it during peak demand, these systems not only optimize the value of renewables but also enhance grid resilience and support the transition to a cleaner energy future.
For Galp and Powin, this partnership opens the door to new opportunities in Europe and beyond. With plans to scale up renewable energy capacity and deploy additional storage systems, both companies are well-positioned to play a key role in shaping the global energy landscape.
To learn more about Galp’s renewable energy initiatives and Powin’s innovative energy storage solutions, visit their official websites. Stay informed about the latest advancements in sustainable energy and discover how these technologies are paving the way for a greener, more resilient future.
By combining cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships, and a shared commitment to sustainability, Galp and Powin are setting a new standard for energy storage in Europe—one that promises to drive progress and innovation for years to come.
About Galp
Galp is an energy company committed to developing efficient and sustainable solutions in its operations and in the integrated offers it provides to its customers. We create simple, flexible, and competitive solutions for the energy or mobility needs of both large industries and small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the individual consumer. Our offer includes various forms of energy – from electricity produced with renewable sources to natural gas and liquid fuels. As a producer, we extract oil and natural gas from reservoirs located kilometers below the sea surface, and we are also one of the main Iberian producers of solar-based electricity. We contribute to the economic development of the countries in which we operate and to the social progress of our host communities. Galp directly employs more than 7,000 people. More information at www.galp.com.
