WPD’s Wind Power Ventures in Greece: A Promising Development Amidst Challenges
WPD, a Germany-based renewable energy developer, has recently made significant strides in Greece’s renewable energy landscape. With approvals granted for two substantial wind power projects—one generating 147.6 MW in Central Greece and another 77 MW in Thrace—the company is positioning itself as a key player in this growing sector. These advancements come at a pivotal time as the world increasingly shifts toward sustainable energy solutions.
WPD’s entry into the Greek market was marked by the acquisition of environmental terms (AEPO) through its subsidiary WPD Wind Energy 2, specifically focusing on the 77 MW facility located in Boeotia (Viotia). Shortly thereafter, WPD Wind Energy 1 reached a similar achievement for a 147.6 MW wind park near Alexandroupolis, according to reports by Newmoney. This rapid progress demonstrates WPD’s robust strategies and its commitment to expanding wind energy capacities in the region.
However, the pathway to these approvals wasn’t entirely smooth. The 147.6 MW project faced a variety of hurdles, particularly concerning fire and bird protection regulations, which required multiple revisions to the original plans. Despite these challenges, the Natural Environment and Climate Change Agency recently issued a negative opinion regarding some aspects of the project, underscoring the complexities that often accompany large-scale renewable initiatives.
As part of the planned developments, WPD is set to install a total of 26 wind turbines across the municipalities of Alexandroupolis and Soufli. Specifically, the sites include Kato Limnes, Makrylofos, Voskotopos, and Kounia, situated in the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace region. Initially slated for a larger number of smaller turbines, WPD revised its design. The final plans include 21 turbines of 6 MW, along with two turbines of 4.5 MW and three turbines of 4.2 MW, with one limited to a capacity of 4.1 MW. All wind turbines will be of the Vestas V150 model, known for efficiency and performance.
For the Thrace project, the developer has streamlined the layout, decreasing the number of planned turbines from 59 to 26 while maintaining a similar energy output. This decision reflects the ongoing trends within the renewable energy sector towards larger, more efficient turbine designs that can maximize energy production while reducing physical footprint.
In terms of infrastructure, WPD intends to construct approximately 45 kilometers of access roads, which includes upgrades to existing roadways spanning around 42 kilometers. The project also entails the construction of two significant substations (150/33 kV) and the installation of underground electrical cables extending 40.5 kilometers for 33 kV and 7.7 kilometers for 150 kV lines. These infrastructural elements are crucial for ensuring efficient power distribution and integration into the national grid.
The 77 MW wind farm project in the central part of Greece will encompass sites located in Megali Rachi, Kroniza, and Kanavari, within the Aliartos-Thespies municipality. This facility is expected to consist of 11 Siemens Gamesa turbines, further diversifying WPD’s technological portfolio while contributing to the nation’s energy mix.
WPD’s expansion into Greece began in 2020, adding the country to its portfolio of renewable energy endeavors alongside ongoing projects in Croatia, Romania, North Macedonia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite grappling with delays and controversies in other Southeastern European markets—such as those in Montenegro and Bulgaria—WPD’s developments in Greece illustrate a focused effort to navigate regulatory landscapes and capitalize on growing support for renewable energy initiatives.