RWE and Greek Public Power Corporation (PPC) have started commercial operation of a 930 MW solar portfolio at the site of the former Amynteo lignite mine in Western Macedonia. The companies said the portfolio is designed to generate enough electricity annually to match the equivalent demand of around 400,000 households. The project is linked to Greece’s approach to repurpose former coal mining areas as lignite-based power generation is phased out.
Portfolio structure and joint venture ownership
The solar portfolio comprises nine individual solar power plants. They are grouped into three clusters within the overall development. The project was delivered through the joint venture Meton Energy, with RWE holding a 51% stake and PPC owning the remaining 49%.
Next phase: Kotyli and Neo Syrakio in Central Macedonia
RWE and PPC are also advancing additional solar developments under their cooperation. Construction is underway on the Kotyli and Neo Syrakio solar projects in Central Macedonia. Together, the two projects are expected to add 567 MW of capacity.
The companies expect the Kotyli and Neo Syrakio projects to be completed by 2027. They also said the additional generation would be sufficient to meet the needs of more than 240,000 households.
PPC renewable targets and battery storage plans
PPC stated that its investments align with a long-term plan to expand renewable capacity to 19 GW by 2030. The company said it plans to pursue wind and solar expansion alongside other measures. PPC also indicated it will invest significantly in battery energy storage systems.
The purpose of the battery energy storage systems, according to PPC, is to improve grid integration and support higher shares of renewable generation.
