The National Energy Storage Strategy (ENAE) will help Portugal make the most of the renewable electricity it already produces.

It also softens the ups and downs of wind and solar power, and strengthens the security, flexibility and stability of the electrical system.

At the same time, it cuts Portugal's reliance on imported fossil fuels and boosts national energy independence - making it a key part of the government's energy transition strategy.

The plan proposes setting binding targets of 6.9 GW of installed storage capacity by 2030, rising to 9.76 GW by 2040.

The plan is backed by technical research from INESC TEC, INESC-ID and IN+, and aligns with Portugal's broader National Energy and Climate Plan.

Environment and Energy Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho framed the strategy as a direct route to cheaper power.

He explained: "The increase in storage capacity promotes greater competitiveness in the energy market and the progressive decrease of energy produced by natural gas plants.”

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Portugal Pathways; Portugal maintains its position as one of Europe's leaders in the clean energy transition

Storage will come in different forms, including fast-to-build options with shorter lifespans, such as batteries, as well as larger-scale projects with greater capacity and longer lifespans, such as pumped hydroelectric storage.

A public consultation into the plans concluded on September 9.

Renewable energy has been one of Portugal’s success stories over recent years. It is now generating around 70-80% of its electricity from the likes of hydro and wind. That puts it among the leading nations within the EU.

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