Portugal recently made headlines by achieving a remarkable feat in renewable energy consumption. For six consecutive days, starting from 4 am on October 31 and continuing until 9 am on November 6, the country produced more energy from renewable sources than it consumed. This surpasses the previous record set in 2019 by lasting for an impressive 149 hours.
During this period, Portugal generated a staggering 1,102 Gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable energy. Astonishingly, the country’s total consumption, including both households and industries, amounted to only 840 GWh. This surplus energy highlights Portugal’s significant progress in transitioning to sustainable power sources.
Although Portugal did not completely rely on renewable energy during this streak, it did achieve another significant milestone. For a remarkable 131 consecutive hours, the country operated without using natural gas. Moreover, during 95 of those hours, Portugal generated such an abundance of clean energy that it even exported some to neighboring Spain.
Portugal’s achievements in renewable energy have not gone unnoticed. The country has been proactive in its pursuit of carbon neutrality, having committed to becoming carbon-neutral by 2050 back in 2016, several years ahead of the rest of the European Union. Furthermore, Portugal aims to decommission all of its natural gas-fired power plants by 2040.
Wind and solar power are the main sources of renewable energy in Portugal. Additionally, the country plans to explore the potential of hybrid plants that combine both wind and solar energy. By leveraging the complementary nature of these sources, Portugal aims to achieve an even more efficient and reliable renewable energy system.
With its determined efforts in transitioning to clean energy, Portugal sets an inspiring example for the rest of the world. The country’s commitment to sustainable practices has already led to remarkable milestones, such as shutting down all its coal plants nearly a decade ahead of schedule. All indications suggest that Portugal is well on its way to achieving its ambitious carbon-neutrality goals, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
FAQs
1. How long did Portugal’s recent renewable energy streak last?
Portugal’s recent renewable energy streak lasted for six consecutive days, totaling 149 hours.
2. How much renewable energy did Portugal produce during this period?
During the record-breaking streak, Portugal generated 1,102 Gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable energy.
3. What energy sources are predominant in Portugal’s renewable energy supply?
The main sources of renewable energy in Portugal are wind and solar power.
4. Did Portugal completely rely on renewable energy during this streak?
Although Portugal didn’t entirely depend on renewable energy, it successfully operated without using natural gas for 131 consecutive hours.
5. What are Portugal’s carbon-neutrality goals?
Portugal aims to become carbon-neutral by 2050, demonstrating its commitment to combating climate change and transitioning to sustainable practices.