Overview
Salgueirinha is a 4 MW operational solar PV facility in Portugal. The plant contributes to the country's renewable energy capacity under the EU Renewable Energy Directive.
Salgueirinha is an operational solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located in Portugal. With a capacity of 4 megawatts, it represents a small-to-medium scale solar installation within the country's growing renewable energy portfolio. The plant is part of Portugal's strategy to increase solar energy generation and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The facility operates under Portugal's national renewable energy framework, which aligns with the EU Renewable Energy Directive III (2023/2413), targeting a 42.5% renewable energy share by 2030. Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity, and this plant contributes to grid stability and decarbonization efforts. Portugal benefits from high solar irradiation, making solar PV a viable and efficient technology. Environmentally, the Salgueirinha solar plant helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports Portugal's climate goals. Solar PV installations have minimal water usage and low operational emissions. The plant's location in the Setúbal region benefits from ample sunlight, and its operation avoids air pollutants associated with conventional power generation. The facility supports local energy independence and contributes to the EU's renewable energy targets.
Environmental context
Solar PV plants like Salgueirinha have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no direct emissions. However, land use for solar arrays can impact local ecosystems and visual landscapes. In Portugal, solar installations are often sited on degraded or agricultural land, balancing energy production with conservation. The plant's location in the Setúbal region has moderate biodiversity, and careful siting minimizes habitat disruption.
Frequently asked questions
The Salgueirinha solar PV plant is located in Portugal, near the coordinates 38.6453 N, -8.8890 W, in the Setúbal region.
The Salgueirinha solar plant has a capacity of 4 megawatts (MW), making it a small-to-medium scale solar installation.
The Salgueirinha plant uses solar photovoltaic (PV) technology to convert sunlight into electricity.
Portugal aims to achieve 42.5% renewable energy by 2030 under the EU Renewable Energy Directive III. The Salgueirinha plant contributes to this target by adding solar capacity to the national grid.
Solar PV plants produce no direct emissions during operation, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and have low water usage. They help mitigate climate change and improve air quality.