Endesa has begun constructing the 69.2 MWp Mudéjar photovoltaic plant in Andorra with a 48.5 million euro investment. The 111.4-hectare site will generate over 128 GWh of electricity yearly.
Endesa’s Second Solar Farm in Andorra
Endesa has begun construction on its second solar farm in Andorra. This project which was named the Mudéjar photovoltaic plant marks a significant milestone for the company. Developed by Enel Green Power España (EGPE), the Mudéjar plant will have a capacity of 69.2 MWp. The total investment in this project is 48.5 million euros.
Solar farm construction in Andorra
The Mudéjar photovoltaic plant will be located on the site of the former coal park of the Andorra thermal power plant. It will also utilize the land of the closed "Mas de Perlé" landfill. This project will cover 111.4 hectares. It will include 126,504 photovoltaic modules of crystalline technology with a fixed structure. These modules are expected to generate more than 128 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity per year.
The electricity produced will be sufficient to supply about 32,000 households. In addition, the Mudéjar plant will help prevent the emission of approximately 52,196 tons of CO₂ annually. The plant is expected to be connected to the power grid by the end of 2024, according to official reports from Endesa.
The Mudéjar project follows Endesa's first solar initiative in Andorra, the Sedéis V solar park. The Sedéis V solar park has a capacity of 49.71 MWp and began operations last December. Like Sedéis V, the Mudéjar plant is part of Endesa’s strategy to expand its renewable energy footprint in the region. Endesa is also working closely with local associations to support the development of these facilities.
Andorra Expands Solar Energy Footprint with New Projects
In a significant move towards sustainable energy, Andorra has announced several new solar power initiatives aimed at boosting the country's renewable energy capacity. The Andorran government has unveiled plans for three major solar projects: SolAndorra I, SolAndorra II, and Pyrenees Solar Park. These projects are set to generate approximately 50 megawatts (MW) of clean energy, marking a considerable advancement in the nation's renewable energy infrastructure.
SolAndorra I (the first and largest of the projects) will have a capacity of 25 MW. Located in the La Massana district, this project is expected to cover an area of around 40 hectares. The installation will utilize cutting-edge photovoltaic technology to capture and convert sunlight into electricity efficiently. Once operational, SolAndorra I will significantly reduce Andorra's dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
The second project, SolAndorra II is set to contribute an additional 15 MW. Situated near the town of Escaldes-Engordany, this project will span approximately 20 hectares. It aims to harness the high-altitude sunlight, which is particularly intense in Andorra's mountainous terrain. SolAndorra II is expected to provide power to local businesses and residential areas, supporting the country's transition to a greener energy mix.
The third initiative, Pyrenees Solar Park is expected to add another 10 MW to Andorra’s renewable energy portfolio. Located in the eastern part of the country, this park will be strategically positioned to maximize solar exposure throughout the year. The project’s design incorporates advanced tracking systems that will adjust the solar panels’ angles to follow the sun’s trajectory, thereby increasing overall efficiency.
Impact of the Photovoltaic Plants
These photovoltaic projects represent a significant leap forward in Andorra’s energy strategy. The government’s commitment to increasing the share of renewable energy is aligned with the country’s broader environmental goals. By investing in solar power, Andorra aims to reduce its carbon footprint and set a positive example for other small nations with similar energy challenges.
The push towards solar energy also comes as part of a wider European trend where countries are increasingly focusing on renewable sources to meet their climate targets. For Andorra, these projects not only promise environmental benefits but also economic advantages. The development and maintenance of solar farms are expected to create job opportunities and stimulate local economies.
The successful implementation of these photovoltaic projects will mark a new chapter in Andorra's energy landscape, demonstrating how even small countries can make substantial contributions to global sustainability efforts. The transition to solar energy is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Andorra's future, thereby paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable energy system.