Overview
Termoeléctrica da Figueira da Foz is a 34.3 MW biomass power plant located in Portugal. It converts biomass into electricity, contributing to the country's renewable energy mix.
Termoeléctrica da Figueira da Foz is a biomass power plant located in Portugal, with coordinates 40.0529° N, -8.8762° W. It has an operational capacity of 34.3 MW, placing it in the small-to-medium scale range for biomass power generation. The plant is currently operational and plays a role in Portugal's renewable energy sector. The plant operates under Portugal's national regulations, which transpose the EU Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU). As a biomass facility, it uses organic materials as fuel, which can include forestry residues, agricultural waste, or dedicated energy crops. Biomass combustion typically produces CO2, but it is considered carbon-neutral if sourced sustainably. The plant's technology likely involves a steam turbine cycle, common for biomass power plants of this scale. Environmentally, biomass power plants can have lower net CO2 emissions compared to fossil fuel plants, but they still emit particulate matter and other pollutants. The plant's location near Figueira da Foz, a coastal town, means emissions are subject to local air quality standards. Its contribution to the grid helps diversify Portugal's energy mix, which includes hydro, wind, and solar sources.
Environmental context
The plant uses biomass as fuel, which is considered renewable but can produce air pollutants such as particulate matter, NOx, and CO2. Its location near the coast and populated areas may require adherence to strict emission limits under EU and Portuguese regulations. Sustainable sourcing of biomass is critical to minimize deforestation and land-use impacts.
Frequently asked questions
The plant is located in Portugal, near Figueira da Foz, at coordinates 40.0529° N, -8.8762° W.
It is a biomass power plant that generates electricity by burning organic materials such as wood waste or agricultural residues.
The plant has an installed capacity of 34.3 megawatts (MW), which is typical for a small-to-medium scale biomass facility.
Biomass plants in Portugal must comply with the EU Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU) and national air quality standards, including limits on particulate matter, NOx, and SOx emissions.
Biomass is considered carbon-neutral if sourced sustainably, but combustion releases pollutants like particulate matter and NOx. Proper fuel sourcing and emission controls are essential to minimize environmental impact.