EDP adds 90 MW of renewable capacity in Spain
EDP, a global leader in renewable energy, has added 90 MW of renewable capacity to the electricity system, by bringing into operation two new photovoltaic plants in Navarra, known as Cierzo II (42 MW) and Cierzo IV (47.5 MW). With these projects, EDP strengthens its commitment to renewables. Every new megawatt enhances energy independence, reduces exposure to volatility in international markets, and accelerates an energy transition that is already key to competitiveness and sustainability.
Both installations are the first to be commissioned by the company in Spain this year and represent EDP’s first renewable projects in Navarra, reinforcing its commitment to the development of clean energy in the country. Cierzo II is located in the municipality of Corella, while Cierzo IV is in Castejón. Between the two renewable plants, the company has installed more than 160,000 solar modules, which are expected to generate each year the equivalent of the average electricity consumption of 45,000 households.
From an environmental perspective, and taking into account the plants’ 30‑year operational lifetime, the projects will prevent the emission of around 400,000 tonnes of CO₂.The construction of these solar parks created more than 200 jobs across over 60 companies, under a zero‑accident objective and in compliance with the highest standards of health, safety and prevention throughout all phases of the works. In total, 220,000 working hours were recorded.
To evacuate the energy generated at both sites, the company also built an electrical substation and a 2.5‑kilometre‑long 400 kV transmission line to connect to a Red Eléctrica substation. Given the characteristics of the area — which include other power lines, operational and planned railway infrastructure, and motorways — one of the transmission towers reaches a height of 90 metres, requiring a helicopter to string the line. In addition, and as part of EDP’s commitment to the local area, agreements have been signed to restore ownership of the Montes de Cierzo and Argenzón land as communal property of the Municipality of Corella.
The development of these projects has been carried out with a strong focus on protecting natural heritage and enhancing ecosystems. Biodiversity conservation measures are being implemented, including the installation of nest boxes for lesser kestrels and shelters for bats, supporting the presence of key species for the balance of agricultural ecosystems.
In addition, throughout the entire operational life of the plants, specific habitat management will be implemented to protect steppe birds, compensating a total area of 112.24 hectares in Navarra’s Steppe Bird Areas of Interest.