Portuguese solar generation hit highest point ever in May

Source: Beatriz Santos | · PV MAGAZINE· | June 16, 2022

Source: APREN

May was a record-breaking month for solar in Portugal. The country generated 3,337 GWh of electricity, with solar production accounting for 8.2% of the total – the highest level ever recorded in the country.

However, solar still performed below its full potential in Portugal, taking fourth place among the most productive renewable energy sources. Wind was the leader, accounting for 25% of total generation, followed by hydro at 13% and biomass at 9.8%.

Renewable energy accounted for 56,3% of total electricity production, or 1,902 GWh, down 4.2% from May 2021. The decrease was mainly due to a decline in wind and hydro production, said the Portuguese Association of Renewable Energy (APREN). Renewable energy generation saved Portugal an estimated €274 million ($285.8 million) in natural gas imports in May, equal to or €215.20/MWh, according to APREN.