Renewables deliver 32% in Spain

CSP plants like Andasol pushed out 1% of Spain's power

Renewables met 32% of Spain’s electricity needs in 2012, preliminary figures from grid operator Red Electrica de Espana (REE) show.

The figure is down from 33% in 2011 and a peak of 35% in 2010 due to low reservoir levels at hydroelectric dams.

By comparison, renewables last year represented 11.7% of total production in the UK and 23% in Germany.

But while the roll-out of renewables continues at a fast pace in much of Northern Europe, the addition of new capacity has met serious obstacles in Spain, which has implemented harsh austerity measures to counter its debt crisis.

Solar has been hit by a retroactive cut to PV feed-in tariffs, while wind power is…

Become a Recharge subscriber!

Or try our free trial.

Order Subscription

Already a member?

Login