Portugal has increasingly focused on the production and usage of electricity to meet its growing energy demands sustainably. With a proactive approach toward environmental conservation and renewable energy generation, the nation’s power plants require diligent monitoring and regulation.
This article presents a comprehensive overview of Portuguese power plants, with a focus on their diverse types, including nuclear, hydroelectric, thermal, solar, wind, and waste-to-energy facilities.
Waste-to-Energy Power Plants in Portugal
Waste-to-energy power plants play a dual role in energy generation and waste management, contributing significantly to environmental sustainability. Below is a detailed table summarizing key Portuguese waste power plants, including their capacities, fuel sources, and geographic locations.
Comprehensive Table of Waste Power Plants in Portugal
| Powerplant Name | PowerPlant Capacity (MW) | Power Plant Location (Latitude, Longitude) | Fuel Type – Primary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aveiro (Aterro Sanitário) | 1.2 | 40.6566, -8.5973 | Waste |
| Aveiro (CITVRSU) | 3.2 | 40.5983, -8.5601 | Waste |
| Barlavento (Aterro Sanitário) | 1.7 | 37.2122, -8.5278 | Waste |
| Braval (Ecoparque) | 1.1 | 41.5807, -8.3141 | Waste |
| Coimbra (CITVRSU) | 3.2 | 40.2878, -8.4725 | Waste |
| Incineradora da Terceira | 2.8 | 38.6818, -27.1806 | Waste |
| LIPOR II | 29 | 41.2285, -8.6498 | Waste |
| Leiria (Central de Valorização Orgânica) | 1.7 | 39.7321, -8.8828 | Waste |
| Lipor – Valongo | 2.6 | 41.1995, -8.5458 | Waste |
| Mato da Cruz (Aterro Sanitário) | 1.7 | 38.9186, -9.0712 | Waste |
| Meia Serra (Estaçao de Tratamento de Resíduos) | 8 | 32.6507, -16.9046 | Waste |
| Norte (ETAR) | 1.4 | 39.8952, -8.9101 | Waste |
| Oeste (Aterro Sanitário) | 1.1 | 39.1119, -9.0854 | Waste |
| Palmela (Ecoparque) | 2.4 | 38.616, -8.9804 | Waste |
| Penafiel (Aterro Sanitário) | 1 | 41.0714, -8.3522 | Waste |
Highlights of Key Portuguese Waste Power Plants
LIPOR II
- Capacity: 29 MW
- Location: 41.2285, -8.6498
- Operational Since: 2020
LIPOR II utilizes cutting-edge technology to convert municipal solid waste into renewable energy, minimizing carbon emissions and supporting Portugal’s sustainable energy goals.
Meia Serra (Estaçao de Tratamento de Resíduos)
- Capacity: 8 MW
- Location: 32.6507 N, -16.9046 W
- Established: 2017
Located near Porto, Meia Serra transforms organic waste from landfills into renewable energy. This facility processes various waste materials such as food scraps, paper products, and wood waste. It powers over 88,000 homes, contributing to green initiatives and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Aveiro (Aterro Sanitário)
- Capacity: 1.2 MW
- Location: 40.6566, -8.5973
Operational since 2007, this plant focuses on reducing environmental impact by transforming waste into energy, playing a key role in regional waste management.
Palmela (Ecoparque)
- Capacity: 2.4 MW
- Location: 38.616, -8.9804
Palmela Ecoparque converts organic waste to energy, exemplifying Portugal’s dedication to reducing fossil fuel reliance.
Waste Management and Regulations in Portugal
Portugal emphasizes the safe disposal and recycling of waste generated by power plants, as mandated by the Directorate-General of Energy and Geology (DGEG). Regulations govern the types of waste produced, incentivizing companies to recycle and minimize waste production, aligning with broader goals of environmental sustainability and energy independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Portugal promoting safe disposal of waste from power plants?
A. Yes. Guidelines ensure all waste from power plants is managed to protect public health and the environment.
Q. Are there financial incentives for recycling waste?
A. Yes, companies receive incentives for recycling and reusing waste, reducing disposal costs
Cory Combs is the Lead Writer and a key contributor at PowerPlantForum.com, a top resource for energy professionals and enthusiasts. With over a decade of experience in power plant operations and a degree in Electrical Engineering, Cory is a recognized authority in the field. His expertise in optimizing energy systems is informed by extensive hands-on experience and research. Follow Cory for the latest updates and expert insights on Instagram.