Spain plans 408 MW reversible pumped storage plant

The Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) published on Monday the provisional resolution proposal for the Meirama (A Coruña) Just Transition Hub tender. The initiative aims to grant access rights to the electricity grid to renewable energy projects that deliver the greatest socio-economic benefits in the area formerly occupied by the Naturgy coal-fired power plant, encompassing the municipalities of Carral, Cerceda, A Laracha, Ordes and Tordoia.

Coventina Renovables has been selected as the successful bidder for the requested 408 MW of capacity. The company has committed to creating 1,068 full-time equivalent (FTE) annualized jobs over a ten-year period. These positions will be linked to the operation and maintenance of the planned pumped-storage hydroelectric facility, the development of new business initiatives in the region, and biodiversity enhancement projects around Lake As Encrobas. Once the facilities and related initiatives reach full operational capacity, more than 180 direct jobs are expected to be sustained.

In addition, Coventina plans to roll out vocational training programmes for 450 residents of the Just Transition Zone, delivering a total of 67,500 hours of instruction. The company also foresees the installation of 2 MW of photovoltaic self-consumption capacity across residential properties and municipal buildings.

According to the Government Sub-delegation, Coventina has committed to investing €146,066,644 in the A Coruña value chain for the development of the power plant, alongside €2,840,000 earmarked for the conservation, restoration and promotion of biodiversity and ecosystems. To ensure compliance with these socio-economic commitments, the company will be required to post a €52.8 million guarantee.

The project remains subject to the corresponding environmental impact assessment procedure, in accordance with applicable regulations.

From pv magazine Spain