Overview
Mato da Cruz (Aterro Sanitário) is a 1.7 MW biomass power plant in Portugal, operational and fueled by waste. It contributes to renewable energy generation in the region.
Mato da Cruz (Aterro Sanitário) is a biomass power plant located in Portugal, with coordinates 38.9186° N, -9.0712° W. The facility has a capacity of 1.7 MW and operates using waste as its primary fuel source. It is currently operational, supporting local energy needs through renewable biomass combustion. The plant's relatively small scale is typical for waste-to-energy facilities in Portugal, which often utilize landfill gas or municipal solid waste. As a biomass plant, it operates under the European Union's Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), which sets emission limits for pollutants such as SOx, NOx, and particulate matter. Best Available Techniques (BAT) for waste incineration ensure efficient energy recovery and minimal environmental impact. This facility plays a role in Portugal's renewable energy portfolio, contributing to waste management and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its location near populated areas may require careful monitoring of emissions, but the plant's small capacity and modern regulatory oversight help mitigate potential risks. The plant supports local grid stability and aligns with national goals for sustainable energy production.
Environmental context
The plant's use of waste as fuel reduces landfill volumes and methane emissions, but combustion releases CO2 and other pollutants. Proximity to populated areas (near Lisbon) necessitates compliance with EU air quality standards. The small capacity limits overall environmental footprint, but local impacts on air quality and ash disposal require management under the Industrial Emissions Directive.
Frequently asked questions
Mato da Cruz (Aterro Sanitário) is located in Portugal, at coordinates 38.9186° N, -9.0712° W.
It is a biomass power plant that uses waste as its primary fuel to generate electricity.
The plant has a capacity of 1.7 megawatts (MW).
Biomass plants in Portugal must comply with the EU Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), which sets emission limits for pollutants and requires the use of Best Available Techniques (BAT) for waste incineration.
By using waste as fuel, the plant reduces landfill waste and methane emissions, while generating renewable energy. However, combustion emissions are regulated to minimize air quality impacts.