According to data from the Foro Sella Renewable Energy Observatory and Opina 360, Spain's public administrations have issued construction permits for 727 renewable energy projects in 2024, with a total installed capacity of 26,159.2 megawatts (MW). Of these, photovoltaic energy was at the heart of the development, accounting for 85% of the capacity authorized that year, with 22,326.1 MW. Wind power and biomass and hydroelectric projects also progressed, but PV undoubtedly dominated.

In terms of regional distribution, the construction of renewable energy projects in the Spanish Autonomous Communities shows an uneven development. The three regions of Castile and León, Aragon, and Castile-La Mancha account for more than half of the approved electricity, mainly dominated by photovoltaic power generation. The Aragon region, in particular, not only took the lead in terms of electricity generation, but also topped the list of those that received initial permits and environmental approvals throughout the year. In addition, regions such as Madrid, Valencia and Catalonia have also made significant progress in renewable energy implementation, almost exclusively from PV projects. However, the Cantabria region is not authorized to build any renewable energy projects in 2024.

In terms of project approvals, the Ministry of Ecological Transformation handled the majority of permits for the construction of facilities, including a high percentage of both number and installed capacity. At the same time, some projects were also granted prior administrative authorization, mainly in the field of photovoltaic and wind power. It is worth noting that despite the large number of projects approved, 275 projects with a total capacity of 15,001.1 MW were also rejected, mainly due to unfavorable environmental statements or expired licenses.

In addition to traditional renewable energy generation projects, Spain has made significant progress in the energy storage sector. throughout 2024, construction licenses were granted for 13 energy storage projects with a total installed capacity of 750.6 MW, including reversible pumped storage treatment plants, stand-alone battery parks, and hybrids of batteries with photovoltaic and wind power plants. The construction of these energy storage projects will further enhance the stability and reliability of Spain's renewable energy system.

Overall, Spain has achieved significant results in the construction of renewable energy projects in 2024, with strong momentum in photovoltaic energy in particular. With the increasing global demand for renewable energy and technological advances, Spain is expected to continue to maintain this momentum in the future and make greater contributions to the realization of the energy transition and sustainable development goals. Editor/Xu Shengpeng