- On the path to 100% renewable energy via grid control, integration and optimisation.
- A hybrid storage solution integrates and optimises wind, solar, storage and thermal generation assets on the island of Graciosa.
Off the coast of Portugal, in the northern Azores, heavy dependence on fossil fuel imports, coupled with a growing climate crisis, puts the island of Graciosa in a very unique bind as it relates to energy security. Relying on oil, diesel and natural gas shipments has been a very expensive endeavor and traditionally the only option for isolated communities like Graciosa. Integrating renewable energy has not only become an economically viable alternative, it’s also a sustainable one.
The Graciosa Hybrid Renewable Power Plant enables 1 MW of solar, 4.5 MW of wind power and a 6 MW / 3.2 MWh energy storage system to be supplied to the local grid, reducing the islands’ reliance on petroleum imports and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Graciólica Lda’s end client, local utility EDA, anticipates this investment will boost renewable energy consumption from 15% to 65%. Not only does this reduce the island’s carbon footprint, but the hybrid island grid will also greatly impact the cost of energy going forward.
“The consistency of performance in this project year after year is impressive. This kind of performance is only possible with the right people, the right technology, and the right design. This bright example brings inspiration to many people in our industry who are working hard to change our energy mix globally. Graciosa gives a glimpse into the future for all of us,” said Luke Witmer, Director, Data Science, Wärtsilä Energy Storage & Optimisation.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
