Overview
Pico Vermelho is a 13 MW geothermal power plant in Portugal. It contributes to the country's renewable energy portfolio by harnessing geothermal resources.
Pico Vermelho is a geothermal power plant located in Portugal, with a capacity of 13 megawatts. It operates as a geothermal facility, utilizing the Earth's heat to generate electricity. The plant is situated in the Azores archipelago, a region known for its volcanic activity and geothermal potential. The plant's capacity of 13 MW places it in the small-scale range for geothermal power generation. Geothermal plants like Pico Vermelho benefit from stable baseload power output, unlike intermittent renewables. In Portugal, geothermal energy is supported by national renewable energy targets and European Union directives on clean energy. Pico Vermelho plays a role in diversifying Portugal's energy mix and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its location in the Azores provides local environmental benefits by displacing diesel-based power generation. The plant's operation aligns with Portugal's commitment to carbon neutrality and sustainable development.
Environmental context
Geothermal power generation has a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels, but can involve emissions of hydrogen sulfide and other gases. The plant's location in a volcanic region may influence local geothermal fluid chemistry. Geothermal plants typically have a small land footprint. The 13 MW capacity suggests minimal environmental impact relative to larger facilities.
Frequently asked questions
Pico Vermelho is located in Portugal, specifically in the Azores archipelago, with coordinates 37.7789 N, 25.4904 W.
Pico Vermelho is a geothermal power plant, which generates electricity by harnessing heat from the Earth's interior.
Pico Vermelho has a capacity of 13 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale geothermal facility.
Geothermal plants in Portugal operate under national renewable energy laws and EU directives, including the Renewable Energy Directive and the Industrial Emissions Directive for environmental standards.
Geothermal power produces low CO2 emissions compared to fossil fuels, provides stable baseload electricity, and has a small land footprint, contributing to energy diversification and climate goals.