Greece has awarded almost 160MW to nine wind projects and just under 62MW to 95 solar farms in the country’s latest renewables auction.
Prices for the wind farms ranged from €55 a megawatt-hour to €65.37/MWh, while solar prices were between €63/MWh and €68.99/MWh, according to RAE the Greek regulatory authority for energy.
The wind facilities range in size from 4MW to 39.95MW and include EDPR’s 15MW Aerorrachi project in the north of the country.
WindEurope head of advocacy and messaging Joel Meggelaars said: “These are impressive results. The average price level is even lower than in the last French and German onshore auctions.
“The fact that prices have come down is a signal of confidence from investors in the outlook for wind energy in Greece.
“The high level of competition and the participation of big investors with large wind portfolios in Greece and the wider region has helped to create a downward pressure on prices.
“These results are a clear sign that wind can deliver affordable electricity to Greek consumers and businesses. Greece should now look to be more ambitious on wind in its National Energy and Climate Plan for 2030.
“This kind of ambition and deployment outlook will help Greece to attract new investments, enjoy further cost reductions and create local economic benefits.”
But, he said, that the cost of obtaining a permit for wind farms in Greece remains an issue.
“The Greek government should look at simplifying the permitting procedure. And give more transparency on the length of time needed for environmental assessment, spatial planning and grid connection procedures.”