BNZ, an independent power producer (IPP) specializing in the development, construction, and operation of renewable energy projects, has announced the full-capacity operational consolidation of the Gemunde solar photovoltaic plant, in Vila Nova de Famalicão, in the district of Braga. The operation of this asset, which was BNZ’s first operational plant in Portugal, represents a decisive step in strengthening the company’s growth strategy in the Portuguese market.
The Gemunde plant has an installed capacity of 49 MWp and an annual production of 78,400 MWh per year, enough to supply clean energy to more than 14,000 people. The operation of this plant plays a key role in the region’s decarbonization, avoiding the emission of 30,000 tons of CO2 per year, the equivalent of more than 14,000 plane flights between Lisbon and London. The development of the project has also made a strong contribution to the local economy, creating around 370 direct and indirect jobs.
This infrastructure has relied on GRS, the solar and storage EPC contractor of Grupo Gransolar, as a strategic partner during the construction phases, whose international experience has been essential to optimize plant performance and ensure strict compliance with the highest quality and safety standards.
Luis Selva, CEO of BNZ, highlighted: “Operational consolidation in Gemunde is a transformative milestone for BNZ in the Portuguese market. This infrastructure is proof of our commitment not only to clean energy production, but also to creating real value for local communities. We remain fully focused on developing and managing infrastructure that supports the energy transition and energy independence of Portugal and Europe as a whole, driving the local economy in a sustainable way.”
For his part, Adolfo Ruiz, CCO of GRS, stated: “The Gemunde plant is a benchmark asset for our team. With a complex topographical location, which required intelligent planning and excellence in execution, we have managed to develop a high-performance infrastructure that is already contributing significantly to achieving the energy goals of Portugal and Europe.”
Portugal, a strategic market
Portugal is a strategic market for BNZ. As such, the company expects to invest up to 600 million euros in the national territory with the goal of commissioning nine solar plants. Among them are the Gemunde plant and the recently inaugurated Muro photovoltaic plant, also located in northern Portugal, in Trofa, Porto, which has a capacity of 28 MWp.
Faced with current energy challenges, the company is betting on asset hybridization, optimizing its infrastructure through the implementation of 150 MW of battery storage, 60 MW of which are concentrated in the northern region, to provide flexibility to the electrical system, optimize the integration of renewable energy, and contribute to a more stable and efficient grid.
Energy transition as a driver of local development
As a Next-Generation IPP, BNZ’s commitment goes beyond simple energy generation. Therefore, the company integrates best environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices across all its projects, promoting a positive and lasting impact on the communities where it operates.
According to the planning for the Gemunde plant, the project includes rigorous environmental measures focused on the conservation of cork oak forests, the recovery of green spaces, and the rehabilitation of local natural heritage. In the social sphere, BNZ maintains its commitment to promoting the region’s development through support for community and sports initiatives, as well as the enhancement and protection of local natural structures for educational and visitation purposes.
Through these initiatives, BNZ reaffirms its conviction that the energy transition must go hand in hand with social development, generating shared value and well-being for the communities where it carries out its activity.
